Bae Jun-ho Shines in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers with South Korea

The international break has been a stage for Stoke City players to shine, and this time it was Bae Jun-ho who made his mark in South Korea's victory over Kuwait in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. At just 21 years old, the talented midfielder continues to establish himself as a key player for both his club and country.

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Impact Off the Bench

Bae Jun-ho started the match as a substitute but made a decisive impact after coming on in the 64th minute. Replacing Tottenham’s star player Heung-min Son, Jun-ho quickly adapted to the game's rhythm and became a standout performer.

With South Korea leading 2-1 in a tense encounter, Jun-ho seized his opportunity. In the 74th minute, he scored a crucial goal that sealed a 3-1 victory, reaffirming his potential as one of Asia’s brightest young talents.

Standout Statistics

Despite playing just 26 minutes in the game, Bae Jun-ho left a lasting impression:

• 19 touches, showcasing confidence and control in every play.
• 85% passing accuracy, completing 11 of 13 attempts.
• Key offensive duels, winning 2 out of 4 challenges.

In addition to his goal, Jun-ho created several important attacking plays, once again proving his ability to make a difference in critical moments.

A Bright Future for Stoke City

Jun-ho’s strong performance with South Korea adds to his growing reputation at Stoke City, where he has been an essential player throughout the EFL Championship season. With important matches ahead, the club will be thrilled to welcome back their young star in top form, ready to continue making an impact both domestically and internationally.

Stoke City fans have plenty of reasons to be excited about Jun-ho's growth, as he appears destined for great achievements in the near future.