Why Son Heung-min and Kim Min-jae Are Asia’s Top Players in FOX Sports’ World Cup 2026 Rankings
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South Korea’s soccer pride intact: Why Japanese media acknowledged Son Heung-min and Kim Min-jae
South Korea’s soccer pride intact: Why Japanese media acknowledged Son Heung-min and Kim Min-jae
With the 2026 CONCACAF World Cup about to kick off, U.S. outlet FOX Sports released its list of 100 players to watch from the 48 competing nations. Three Asian players made the cut — South Korea placed two on the list: Son Heung-min (LAFC, No. 81) and Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich, No. 98).
Japan did have Kaoru Mitoma on the list at No. 94, but he withdrew from the final squad with a hamstring injury — a development that left some Japanese fans lamenting the country effectively had no representatives. Japanese sports outlet Soccer Digest covered the story and expressed the disappointment.
Why experts recognize Son Heung-min and Kim Min-jae
Why experts recognize Son Heung-min and Kim Min-jae
FOX Sports noted that Son is in his first full season in Los Angeles and holds the record for the most caps for South Korea. Commentator Stuart Holden said Son has struggled to find consistent scoring form early in the season, but he wouldn’t be worried about Son when South Korea faces big matches.
On Kim Min-jae, FOX described him as the player who helped lead Napoli to a Serie A title before joining Bayern Munich and is expected to be a defensive anchor for South Korea this summer. U.S. soccer legend Alexi Lalas even suggested that, after the tournament, people might be surprised Kim was listed as low as No. 98 — a sign the current ranking could be underrating him.
Japan gets credit as a team
Japan gets credit as a team
Japan wasn’t completely overlooked. In a separate piece, FOX Sports labeled Japan a dark horse in the tournament, pointing to the team’s strong organization, tactical maturity and a style of game management that can be difficult for opponents to handle.
That assessment refers to team performance; on individual-brand value, South Korea clearly leads. Having global names like Son Heung-min and Kim Min-jae is proof South Korea still maintains a presence on the global soccer stage.
Son and Kim take the stage
Son and Kim take the stage
South Korea drew Mexico, South Africa and the Czech Republic in Group A. Host Mexico is the clear group favorite and benefits from a high-altitude home advantage, so they represent a tough challenge.
Still, international outlets view South Korea as a realistic contender for second place in Group A. Individual rankings don’t guarantee results, but Son’s finishing and Kim’s leadership at the back will be tested at the finals. The World Cup opens on June 11.
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