Sonny's 2012-2013 Season: The Korean Star Shines at Hamburg

2012-2013 Season Overview

The 2012-2013 season marked a true breakthrough for Son Heung-min. At Hamburg SV, he appeared in 33 matches, recording 12 goals and 2 assists, becoming the 4th Korean player in history to achieve double-digit goals in a single Bundesliga season. His goal tally more than doubled from the previous season's 5 goals, demonstrating Son's growing prowess on the European stage.

This season, Son firmly established himself as a key striker for Hamburg. Starting in 31 out of 33 matches, he secured his position as the team's main attacking threat. Hamburg successfully avoided relegation from the Bundesliga this season, with Son's performances playing a crucial role in their survival.

Top 5 Key Matches

1. vs Bayern Munich (October 2012) - Exceptional Individual Performance

Against Germany's powerhouse Bayern Munich, Son showcased outstanding individual skills and finishing ability. Despite the team's defeat, Son's goal was praised as a masterpiece that broke through Bayern's solid defense. This goal was particularly impressive as Bayern was on an unbeaten run at the time.

2. vs Borussia Dortmund (February 2013) - Big Club Killer Mentality

In the match against Borussia Dortmund, Son scored multiple goals, showing his ability to rise to the occasion against top teams. His second goal was particularly noteworthy - a perfectly timed run that beat Dortmund's offside trap, finished with composure that confirmed his growth on the European stage.

3. vs Schalke 04 (December 2012) - Ruhr Derby Hero

In the Ruhr Derby between Hamburg and Schalke 04, Son scored the winning goal to lead his team to victory. His precise finish from a second ball situation following a corner kick in the dying minutes demonstrated his goal-scoring instinct and positioning.

4. vs Werder Bremen (March 2013) - Season's Best Individual Skill

Against Werder Bremen, Son produced his best individual performance of the season. Starting from near the center line, he dribbled past three defenders in succession and rounded the goalkeeper before scoring - a goal that German media selected as a "Goal of the Season" candidate.

5. vs FC Augsburg (April 2013) - Disappointing Penalty Miss

In a crucial away match against FC Augsburg where Hamburg desperately needed points, Son faced a disappointing moment. With the score tied 1-1, Son took a penalty kick but saw it saved by the goalkeeper. The team eventually lost 2-1, and after the match, Son maturely reflected: "These experiences are necessary to become a better player."

Season Highlights and Growth Points

Son's most significant improvement in the 2012-2013 season was his enhanced goal-scoring ability. The jump from 5 goals to 12 goals demonstrated his developing finishing skills. Additionally, his 2 assists showed his growth as a team player.

His performances against big clubs proved that Son was evolving beyond just being an Asian player to becoming a respected figure on the European stage. His fearless play against powerhouses like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund showcased his mental growth and maturity.

Season Conclusion and Significance

In what turned out to be his final season at Hamburg, the 2012-2013 campaign saw Son score 12 goals and firmly establish his presence. Based on these performances, Son secured a move to Bayer Leverkusen the following season, setting the stage for his leap to an even bigger European platform.

For Son, who recorded 78 appearances, 18 goals, and 3 assists over three years at Hamburg, the 2012-2013 season holds special significance. It was this season's performances that elevated Son from an Asian prospect to a recognized player in European football.

The season represented a crucial stepping stone in Son's journey from a promising talent to an established European player, laying the foundation for his future successes at Leverkusen and eventually Tottenham Hotspur.