There was little action in the first half of the South Korea vs Mexico World Cup game, with six offsides calls. Mexico's goal in the 50th minute injected urgency, but South Korea didn't start going forward until the last 10 minutes. The team's dour approach has led to criticism from fans and highlights the importance of being brave in football.
Both coaches could have taken a leaf out of Thomas Tuchel's book, who told his team to take the shackles off and be themselves. Tuchel's approach allowed his players to find their confidence and play their way. Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente, also chose tactical freedom and trust, which allowed his players to dominate and run riot.
The article concludes that tactics exist to provide structure and respect, but teams still need to come out and play. Managers should be willing to change their tactics if needed, and the USA's approach against Paraguay is cited as an example of adapting to the flow of the game.
South Korea manager Hong Myung-bo, with his extensive World Cup experience, will have to put the idea of change into practice. France's opening game against Senegal is cited as an example of a team shedding the chains of worry and allowing their talent to shine.
