Former South Korean national team coach Paulo Bento has faced persistent scrutiny following the team’s exit from the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with some reports suggesting tensions persist in the United States, where he currently resides. The South Korean squad’s early elimination from the tournament, marked by a 2-1 loss to Portugal and a 3-2 defeat to Ghana, sparked widespread criticism of Bento’s tactical decisions and leadership. While no official confirmation has been released about Bento’s current activities in the U.S., the controversy surrounding his tenure remains a focal point for fans and analysts alike.
The 2022 World Cup campaign was the first under Bento’s management, and his appointment in 2021 had been seen as a bid to stabilize a team struggling with consistency. However, the group stage exit—South Korea finished third in Group H with four points, behind Uruguay and Portugal—led to his resignation in December 2022. The defeat to Ghana, in particular, drew sharp criticism, as the team squandered a two-goal lead in a match that ultimately determined their fate in the tournament.
World Cup Performance and Tactical Criticisms
South Korea’s 2022 World Cup campaign was marred by a series of tactical missteps under Bento. The team’s 2-1 loss to Portugal in the opening match, where they conceded a last-minute goal, set the tone for a disjointed tournament. In their final group game, South Korea fell 3-2 to Ghana after leading 2-0, a result that sealed their elimination. Analysts pointed to Bento’s reluctance to rotate his squad and his reliance on a defensive approach as key factors in the team’s struggles.
“Bento’s decision to prioritize a 4-4-2 formation over a more flexible system left the team vulnerable against Ghana’s attacking threats,” said sports journalist Kim Min-jun, citing a report from Sports Chosun. “The lack of adaptability in critical moments highlighted the challenges of managing a squad with a mix of veteran and young players.”
Reactions from Fans and Media
The fallout from the World Cup exit was immediate. South Korean fans, many of whom had hoped for a stronger performance after the 2018 World Cup quarterfinal run, expressed frustration on social media. Hashtags like #BentoOut and #SouthKorea2022 trended in the days following the tournament, with many criticizing the coach’s decisions and the federation’s selection process.
While no direct evidence has emerged of fan protests in Los Angeles, where Bento is reportedly based, the city has a significant Korean-American community. Local news outlets, including KCRW, noted that some residents expressed disappointment in the team’s performance, though no large-scale demonstrations were reported. “The anger is more subdued here, but there’s a sense of frustration that the team didn’t meet expectations,” said LA-based sports analyst Lee Sang-hoon.
Coach’s Current Status and Future Prospects
Bento, 51, has not publicly commented on his current activities since leaving South Korea. However, he was reported to have moved to the U.S. in early 2023, though the exact reasons remain unclear. His previous managerial roles include stints with Portuguese clubs Benfica and Porto, as well as the Portuguese national team, where he led the side to the 2016 European Championship final. Despite his international experience, the World Cup exit has cast a shadow over his career.
South Korea’s football federation appointed Hong Myung-bo as the new head coach in January 2023, signaling a shift toward a more dynamic playing style. Hong, who previously managed the Korean FA Cup-winning Busan I’Park, has emphasized attacking football and youth development. His appointment has been met with cautious optimism, though the team’s performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers will be critical in determining his tenure.
Impact on South Korean Football
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