J-League Star Na Sang-ho: 'Previous Defeats Were Powerless, But This Time We Dominated'

Historic Third Consecutive Loss Marks New Low for Korean Football

Korean football experienced an unprecedented humiliation on July 15, 2025, as the men's national team suffered their first-ever three consecutive defeats to Japan in the final match of the 2025 EAFF E-1 Championship. The 0-1 loss at Yongin Mireu Stadium meant Korea had to hand over the championship trophy to Japan on home soil, marking a dramatic shift in the regional football hierarchy.

The defeat sequence began with a crushing 0-3 loss in Yokohama in 2021, followed by another 0-3 defeat in Nagoya in 2022, and culminated in this latest setback. What makes this particularly significant is that Korea's overall record against Japan stands at 42 wins, 23 draws, and 17 losses, but since the 2010s, the tables have turned with Korea managing only 4 wins, 4 draws, and 5 losses. Despite finishing second with 6 points from 2 wins and 1 loss, Korea couldn't prevent Japan from claiming their third overall E-1 Championship title with a perfect 3-0 record.

Na Sang-ho's Perspective: From Powerlessness to Dominance

Na Sang-ho, who plays for J1 League club Machida Zelvia, provided a unique perspective on Korea's performance evolution. Having been present on the field during all three consecutive defeats, the 28-year-old forward offered a striking comparison between past and present performances. "When we lost 0-3 in the last East Asian Cup, we lost powerlessly," Na reflected in the post-match mixed zone. "Today, rather than being powerless, I think we showed dominating gameplay. The result is disappointing, but I believe we performed well in terms of content."

This assessment wasn't mere consolation, as statistical evidence supported his claims. Korea dominated possession 58-42 and outshot Japan 9-4, with Na himself hitting the post in the 7th minute - a moment that could have changed the entire complexion of the match. The goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo, who captained the side, echoed similar sentiments: "It wasn't easy in the first half, but in the second half, we dominated and controlled the game. It's a shame that we couldn't bring the result, but I think we can win enough even if we play Korea-Japan someday".

J-League Experience Shapes Na's Enhanced Gameplay

Na Sang-ho's journey from K League to J League has been transformative, both personally and professionally. Having joined Machida Zelvia in January 2024 after successful stints with FC Seoul, the winger has gained invaluable insights into Japanese football culture and tactical sophistication. "As seen in today's match, J League excels in detailed play and tactical team play," Na explained when comparing the two leagues. "But in the second half, we led the game, so K League players also showed well that they don't fall behind J League with their unique strengths."

The adaptation to J League football has refined Na's playing style significantly. "Previously, I used to do a lot of one-on-one breakthroughs, but in J League, my link-up play and detailed aspects have developed," he revealed. This evolution was evident in his performance statistics, where he has scored 2 goals in 11 J1 League appearances in 2025, maintaining a goals-per-90-minutes ratio of 0.52. His enhanced tactical awareness and technical precision have made him a more complete player, capable of creating opportunities not just for himself but for his teammates as well.

National Team Comeback After Two-Year Absence

Na Sang-ho's return to the national team for the 2025 EAFF E-1 Championship was particularly meaningful, as he hadn't received a call-up since June 2023. The forward approached this tournament with the mindset that it could be his last opportunity to represent his country. "I always made a lot of efforts at my club to be selected for the national team and prepared desperately, so I was able to join this time," Na stated. "I approached it thinking it might be my last chance, and although the result is disappointing, I showed everything I could and wanted to do, so I have no regrets."

His dedication to regaining his place in the national setup was evident throughout the tournament. Initially struggling to adapt to the team's playing style, Na gradually found his rhythm, culminating in what he considered his best performance in the final against Japan. "At first, adapting to the team's color was weak when I was called up, but in the final Japan match, I think I showed many strengths within the play I could do," he reflected. This tournament served as a crucial stepping stone for the 28-year-old, who has 28 international caps and 2 goals to his name.

Tactical Analysis: Korea's Improved Performance Despite Defeat

The statistical breakdown of the Korea-Japan final revealed a much-improved Korean performance compared to their previous encounters. Head coach Hong Myung-bo experimented with a three-back formation featuring Park Jin-seob, Kim Joo-seong, and Park Seung-wook, which proved effective in nullifying Japanese attacks for most of the match. The team's 58% possession and 9 shots to Japan's 4 demonstrated their ability to control the game flow and create scoring opportunities.

The decisive moment came in the 8th minute when Japan's Ryo Germain capitalized on a defensive lapse, volleying home from what appeared to be a harmless cross by Yuki Soma. This single goal proved to be the difference, as Korea's inability to convert their dominance into goals ultimately cost them the match. Na's early chance, where his shot struck the post, epitomized Korea's frustrating afternoon in front of goal. Despite the disappointment, coach Hong Myung-bo noted: "Overall, I think our players did better today in terms of both teams. Japan failed to demonstrate its advantages. We were ahead in all figures, including shooting and ball possession".

Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact of the Historic Defeat

The defeat resonated deeply within Korean football culture, with the historic nature of the three consecutive losses amplifying the disappointment. What made the situation more striking was the presence of hundreds of Japanese supporters from 'Ultra Nippon' who traveled to Yongin and occupied significant sections of the stadium. Their vocal support, complete with large Japanese flags and synchronized chanting, created an atmosphere where Japanese cheers were often louder than those from Korean fans, despite the match being held on Korean soil.

The attendance of 18,418 spectators at Yongin Mireu Stadium represented the tournament's highest, filling approximately half of the 37,000-capacity venue. However, the Red Devils, Korea's traditional supporter group, appeared notably smaller compared to their Japanese counterparts, symbolizing the shifting dynamics in regional football support. Chinese media also took notice of Korea's struggles, with some outlets mocking the team's performance, adding an international dimension to the disappointment. The defeat has sparked conversations about Korean football's direction and the need for strategic improvements to compete effectively against their regional rivals.

Looking Forward: Na Sang-ho's Development Goals and Future Prospects

Despite the tournament's disappointing conclusion, Na Sang-ho identified specific areas for improvement that could enhance his competitiveness at the international level. "One-on-one breakthroughs, space penetration, and creating space for teammates, along with assists and shooting, need to be supplemented for me to be more competitive in the national team," he emphasized. This self-assessment reflects his mature understanding of modern football demands and his commitment to continuous development.

The forward's experience in J League has provided him with valuable insights into the technical and tactical aspects that separate top-level Asian football. His ability to adapt his playing style from the more physical K League approach to the technical precision required in J League demonstrates his versatility and learning capacity. As Korea prepares for future international competitions, including the 2026 World Cup in North America, Na's blend of K League physicality and J League technical sophistication could prove crucial for the national team's success. His determination to improve, combined with his recent international experience, positions him as a key player for Korea's future campaigns, provided he can maintain his club form and continue his development trajectory.