Early World Cup exits a lesson for Asia, says AFC head


A South Korean soccer fan cries while watching a live television broadcast after their team was defeated by Belgium in their 2014 World Cup Group H soccer match, in Seoul June 27, 2014. REUTERS/Kim Hong-Ji

BRASILIA (Reuters) - The winless World Cup showing by Asia's four teams is a wakeup call for the region, the head of AFC said on Friday, but the lacklustre showing has not deterred calls for extra places at the finals from his members.

South Korea exited on Thursday after a 1-0 loss to Belgium condemned them to last place in Group H, the same position Japan, Iran and Australia managed in their four team pools as the region managed only a collective three points in Brazil.

Save 30% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Football

Soccer-Morocco says AFCON final incidents will not affect close African ties
Soccer-Pisilli's brace propels Roma past Stuttgart, fans clash at Europa League matches
Soccer-Peru's Alianza Lima suspends players amid abuse claim
Soccer-Frank rues Tottenham's injury curse as Bergvall joins absentees
Soccer-Man Utd midfielder Casemiro to leave at end of season
Soccer-Senegal coach explains walk-off ahead of probable sanction
Turtles on alert
Simen fuels belief for Kelantan in Selangor showdown�
Soccer-Inter have chance to extend lead atop Serie A as rivals clash
Soccer-Rejuvenated Manchester United out to halt Arsenal's title charge

Others Also Read