“It is regrettable that we ended with a draw. Our players gave their all until the end. We had physical difficulties playing two away games and the players looked tired in the second half.

This was our last match for the year and I feel sorry for the fans for not winning. Looking at today’s match, there are areas where we need to improve. When I return to Korea, I will look back on everything and work on producing a good performance when the Qualifiers resume in March.”

Son Heung-min equalised for Korea Republic after Zeid Qunbar had put Palestine ahead in the 12th minute with the Korea Republic skipper admitting they had made it difficult for themselves. 

“Today's game was not easy. I would like to give a round of applause to the Palestinian team. I think we need to learn from seeing them work so hard even in difficult situations.

“I think we made the game difficult (for ourselves). It was difficult because of our mistakes, but I think we showed a good performance by equalising quickly,” said Son, who took his international tally to 51 goals. 

While he applauded his team for a second consecutive draw against Korea Republic, Palestine head coach Makram Daboub admitted that the point was not enough to boost their chances of a top two finish. 

“It was a difficult game for us. We scored first but we lacked focus and this was why we conceded. We played better in the second half but missed a lot of chances. 

“The result leaves us in a difficult position (for a top two finish) but we will still fight for third or fourth place. However, it will not be easy because most of the players haven't played club football in a year.”

Palestine, on four points, will resume their campaign in March against Jordan while Korea Republic will meet Oman.