South Korean soccer without Son Heung-min has evolved 'Golden Talent' Lee Kang-in's role has become more important
Oct 05, 2024
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South Korea's national soccer team, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo, will play the third Group B match against Jordan at the International Stadium in Amman, Jordan, at 11 p.m. on the 10th (Korea time). After that, he returned home by chartered plane and clashed with Iraq at 8 p.m. on the 15th at Mir Stadium in Yongin, Gyeonggi-do.
A large variable has occurred. 'Ace' Son Heung-min left due to an injury. The Korea Football Association decided on the 4th that Son Heung-min needs a rest due to his left thigh injury. In order to protect the players, we have finally decided to exclude the October call-up,' the statement said. In place of Son Heung-min, Hong Hyun-seok (Mainz) was selected as a substitute.
Son Heung-min emerged in the first round of the Europa League (UEL) phase of the 2024-2025 season against Karabakh (Azerbaijan) on the 26th of last month. He did not appear in the second round of the UEL League phase against Manchester United (EPL) and Ferencvaros (Hungary). According to Tottenham manager Enze Postecoglou, Son Heung-min is unlikely to be able to play in the league's away game against Brighton on the 7th. Postecoglou said, `Son Heung-min is unlikely. We're pushing hard, but at the moment, things could be too fast."
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In the absence of the ace, Lee Kang-in's shoulders became heavier. Lee Kang-in has definitely become the core of the A national team since the 2022 Qatar World Cup. He is the center of the road to the North-China World Cup. Lee Kang-in scored four goals and three assists in six games in the second Asian qualifying round. With the exception of just one game, he launched an offensive point in every game.
Lee Kang-in is also key under the newly launched coach Hong Myung-bo. He started as the wing that reached the first game against Palestine last month. Depending on the situation, he dug into the center and confused the opponent. In addition, Lee Kang-in came down to the third line and received the ball to open the attack. Lee Kang-in showed everything from running the game, passing and shooting. He also accumulated attack points in his second game against Oman. He helped Son Heung-min score the winning goal in the 38th minute of the second half when the game was 1-1. When two opposing defenders were surrounded for a moment, they took advantage of it. He played defense against himself and passed to Son Heung-min to help score.
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Above all, Lee Kang-in is showing a step forward. He has mainly played as an attacking midfielder and right-sided striker. However, he also played as a defensive midfielder in off-season friendly matches. In addition, he played with a zero-top 'fake #9' in the match against Ren. As Lee Kang-in played various positions, the range of use expanded.
epi17@sportschosun.com
