‘Zombie football’ keeps South Korea in hunt for elusive Asian Cup crown

Jürgen Klinsmann’s side stumbled into the last four but now only Jordan stand between the Taeguk Warriors and the final.

South Korea's Son Heung-min celebrates after winning the Asian Cup quarter-final.

It has been labelled “zombie football” because South Korea have scored four goals in second-half added time in five Asian Cup games. The never-say-die Taeguk Warriors have stumbled and shuffled towards the semi-finals, arms outstretched, reaching to lift the trophy for the first time since 1960. Just when you think you have them beaten, up pops Son Heung-min, Hwang Hee-chan or Lee Kang-in.

The manager, Jürgen Klinsmann, seems to be happy to let his stars do their thing. “Son is a great leader and player and I trust his decisions,” said the German after the latest last-minute escape, a 2-1 win over Australia in the quarter-final that booked Tuesday’s game against Jordan. Fans also trust the captain while being unsure about the coach; for now, though, they are willing to go along for the ride and see where it ends.