Hong Myung-bo’s Tactical Approach Deserves Reassessment, Not Rejection
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – Recent criticism leveled at national team coach hong Myung-boho following a 5-0 defeat to Brazil centers on his deployment of a three-back formation, but analysts argue the system isn’t inherently flawed – the issue lies in a lack of accompanying tactical clarity and organizational structure. The loss, while decisive, should serve as a catalyst for refining the tactical philosophy behind the formation, not abandoning it altogether.
The debate surrounding the three-back system highlights a crucial point in modern football: formations are merely tools. Their effectiveness is entirely dependent on the strategic principles guiding their implementation.Without a well-defined build-up play and clear attack transition routes integrated within the system, any tactical setup risks becoming a liability. This is particularly relevant for Hong Myung-boho,who now needs to articulate a compelling “why” for his tactical choices,transforming the current perception of the three-back as an “excuse for defeat” into a viable pathway to success.
The core problem isn’t the choice of three defenders, but the absence of a cohesive tactical framework. As Johan Cruyff famously stated, “Defeat is not a failure of tactics, but a failure of thinking.” Hong Myung-boho’s team needs to demonstrate a “completion of the plan,” moving beyond simply implementing “Plan A” without a deeper understanding of its strengths and weaknesses in specific match scenarios. A strong formation, like the three-back, requires a clear philosophy to unlock its potential and avoid becoming a hindrance.