South Africa has unexpectedly become the most vocal observer of Son Heung-min’s prolonged goal drought. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America looming, local media in South Africa—a group-stage opponent of South Korea—have started highlighting the struggles of the Korean captain.

On May 11 (KST), South African outlet *Kickoff* reported, “One of South Africa’s World Cup group-stage rivals is facing concerns over the performance of their key star.” The player in question was South Korea’s captain, Son Heung-min.

*Kickoff* stated, “Son Heung-min has become a major talking point ahead of the World Cup. The South Korean captain is struggling to regain his scoring touch at his current club.”

The report added, “The former Tottenham star, now playing for LAFC in MLS, is enduring a difficult time in front of goal. Despite being regarded as one of Asia’s top talents, he hasn’t shown the expected sharpness.”

Son has indeed maintained strong overall influence for LAFC this season, but the problem is scoring. In 10 league matches, he has recorded eight assists but is yet to find his first goal.

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South African media zeroed in on this stat. *Kickoff* noted, “The 33-year-old is creating impressive assist numbers but hasn’t scored all season. Concerns are growing in South Korea just before the World Cup.”

However, this isn’t simply a case of individual decline. Son’s role has changed significantly. Last season, he scored 12 goals and added four assists in 13 games. Under coach Mark Dos Santos, he now operates more as a second-line playmaker than a traditional finisher.

Emphasizing creating chances for teammates has naturally boosted his assist numbers, but his shot count and penetration into the box have decreased. The issue is sharpness—even world-class attackers can lose their scoring rhythm after a long drought. In MLS, opponents are focusing heavily on Son, limiting his clear shooting opportunities.

Ultimately, what Son needs most is a goal. One strike could change the momentum, but for now, the situation remains frustrating.

*Kickoff* concluded, “South Korean fans hope Son will rediscover his scoring touch before the World Cup. On the other hand, South Africa, Mexico, and the Czech Republic see his current silence as a positive sign.”

Son’s goalless run is not just a problem for LAFC—it directly affects the entire Hong Myung-bo-led national team as they prepare for the World Cup. If Son continues in this vein under Dos Santos, South Korea could enter the tournament under significant pressure. Meanwhile, South Africa will be hoping the drought persists.