Alisson Becker and Richarlison show class after Tottenham’s Son Heung-min and South Korea exit World Cup

Son Heung-min bowed out of the World Cup with South Korea on Monday night when Brazil marched through to the quarter-finals.

South Korea squeezed through their group after a dramatic win over Portugal in their final game, but their reward was a tricky tie with one of the favourites to win the World Cup - Brazil. Tite’s men made easy work of South Korea, racing into a four-goal lead by half-time.

Paik Seung-ho did manage to pull a goal back in the second half, but the game was long gone by then, and Tottenham star Son was left devastated by the exit, being a passionate pillar of the South Korea national team. But the Spurs star was comforted by his club teammate.

Richarlison, who scored for Brazil during the clash, took to social media after the game, writing: “I know how hard you fought to be here and that’s why you’re a hero to your people @Sonny7!”

Meanwhile, Liverpool star Alisson Becker, who is usually Son’s rival at club level, showed his class by leaving celebrations with his team and approaching Son before embracing him after the final whistle. The Liverpool goalkeeper appeared to say a few words to comfort Son.

It’s a nice touch from Alisson, who doesn’t have any significant connection with Son, beyond being his rival.

Son will now have a short break from football before returning to north London to join Tottenham’s preparations for the return of Premier League football in less than three weeks. After the game, the forward apologised to his nation for the team’s performance against Brazil.

"I can only apologise to our fans for not living up to their expectations," said the 30-year-old. "We did our best but I think we played a very difficult game. Still, there is no doubt that all the players battled proudly, devoted themselves and worked hard to get this far. The players and staff really did their best to prepare for this match, so I hope you understand."