“What was really good today was how the players who came in as substitutes in the second half were dedicated to the team,” said Hong. “Those aspects are taking root in the team. The players are in the process of figuring out how we should move forward.

“I think the defence did well in both games. The goals we conceded were more a problem of concentration than the overall defensive organisation. Cho Yu-min did very well in both games, but we don’t know yet which player will be in his spot in November.

“I think today was the most important game of the year in some ways. I'm happy that we won, and I want to congratulate the players who led us to the victory. What our players showed in a short period of time was really good. We finished with two wins, so I hope they return to their respective teams and do their jobs well.”

With an additional six points under their belt, Korea Republic will now look to carry their momentum into their upcoming fixtures, while Iraq must regroup as they seek to bounce back after holding their own on Tuesday.

Iraq head coach Jesus Casas said his side couldn’t cope with Korea Republic’s tactical shift.

“It seems that we did not respond appropriately to Lee Jae-seong's positioning,” said Casas. “The biggest difference between the friendly match in January and today's game is that they played a different style. (Former Korea Republic) Coach (Jurgen) Klinsmann’s lineup back then was different, and so were the players who started.

“We used two left fullbacks to block Lee Kang-in, a great Korean player. Lee Kang-in is the most dangerous player. I think we controlled him during today’s game. In that respect, we did very well, but we didn’t create many opportunities on the offensive side.”

Iraq will host Jordan in their next match on November 14 while Korea Republic will travel to face Kuwait.