The South Korean national soccer team defeated Tunisia 4-0 last night, even without their ace, Son Heung-min.
The game was highlighted by Lee Kang-in, who scored two goals, including his debut goal in an A-match.
Like Son Heung-min, who made the leap to world-class status after winning the Asian Games gold medal five years ago, Lee Kang-in heralded a spectacular rise.
Choi Hyung-kyu is a reporter.
Instead of Son Heung-min, who was benched due to accumulated fatigue and injury, it was Lee Kang-in who shone on the field.
In the 10th minute of the second half, Lee earned a free kick with a brilliant dribble, and he took it himself, placing it in the corner of the net for the 1-0 lead.
Lee celebrated his first goal in four years at the national level with a powerful roar.
After a perfect performance that saw him score three of the team’s four goals, along with his second goal two minutes later, Lee said, “The only thing that matters is that the team wins.
▶ Interview: Lee Kang-in / Korea National Football Team Midfielder
- “No matter what tournament I go to, I want to help the team win, and I think that’s all I want to do.”
A strong presence in a team without Son Heung-min, Lee Kang-in has been touted as the “next ace” in the hole.
Like Son five years ago, he won a gold medal at the Asian Games, and with his military service suspended, he’s ready to make his mark on the European stage.안전놀이터
▶ Interview: Son Heung-min, captain of the South Korean national soccer team
- “I say this with a smile on my face, but I think they can do without me now.”
With Son Heung-min set to play against Vietnam in three days’ time, all eyes will be on the current ace and the next ace, Lee Kang-in, to see if they can create something together.