As the World Cup flames burned down to the round of 16, the South Korean team's campaign came to a close, yet Portuguese head coach Paulo Bento's heartfelt farewell after the match was like a touch of serenity in the midst of the shocking waves, as he decided to step down from his head coaching position and not renew his contract.
When the referee's whistle blew, the South Korean players were overflowing with emotion, they stood on the field with their hands on their hips, looking forlorn, and Son Heung-min even took off his mask and sat on the ground, bidding a reluctant farewell to the World Cup in Qatar. At the same time, Paul Bento walked slowly into the field and embraced the players one by one. His encouragement was like a warm current that warmed the hearts of the players who have been fighting side by side for many years. He also led the whole team to the fans' stands to express his deepest gratitude to the fans who had traveled thousands of miles to cheer for the South Korean team.
Paulo Bento said fondly after the game, "After this game, I will end my career as the head coach of the South Korean national team. I have been in this position for four years and I am very satisfied with this. I have been thinking about leaving since September this year, and I discussed this with Jung Mong-kyu, the chairman of the Football Association, and informed the players of the news." He has been at the helm of the South Korean national team since August 2018
Although he did not reveal his next step, he was very satisfied and proud of his players' performance: "I am satisfied and proud of the South Korean players. I am also satisfied with today's game, they are the best players I have ever coached. Despite the regrettable result, they are undoubtedly the best."
