The “solver” to break down Oman’s dense defense is Lee Kang-in (23, Paris Saint-Germain).
Lee Kang-in stood out alone in the first match against Palestine in the third Asian qualifying round for the 2026 FIFA North-China World Cup by the national soccer team Hong Myung-bo. The national team struggled quite a bit against Palestine, ranked 96th in FIFA, but Lee Kang-in’s unique dribble breakthrough and left-footed kick were certainly threatening.
In the match against Palestine, Lee Kang-in effectively spearheaded the national team’s attack with a “free roll.” He often moved to the center as well as the sides, confusing the opponent’s defense. Although he missed a perfect scoring opportunity once, he took charge of the free kicker as well, and established himself as an ace in the team. He showed good teamwork between front-line striker Oh Se-hoon (Michida). In the second half, he came down to the third line and distributed the balls.
Oman ranks 76th in FIFA rankings, but displayed good performance in away matches in Iraq in the first round. The team lost 0-1 amid numerical inferiority. Notably, the team has displayed good defense, as evidenced by its scoreless streak in three of the last five games. Chances are high that Oman will play close defense and target the national team with counterattacks.
The national team often struggled in away games in the Middle East. Middle Eastern countries are not physically inferior to Korean players. Difficulties caused by dense defense can be broken down with creative passes and combination plays. Lee Kang-in, who has excellent personal skills, is the right person.
If Lee Kang-in is released from the right side, Son Heung-min (Tottenham) and Hwang Hee-chan (Wolverhampton) will also be able to revive. That is why Lee’s left foot is all the more important. Lee Kang-in not only makes creative passes but also accurate crosses to score goals for his strikers. He can also play as a “fixer” himself. Even if he is not a field goal, he is capable of making a difference in situations such as free kicks or corner kicks. 메이저놀이터
After the match against Palestine, Lee Kang-in emphasized, “I think we should try to be a player who saves when the chance comes. We will unite and show good soccer and results.”
Lee Kang-in stood tall as the ace of the national team in name and reality. He has become indispensable. It is one of Hong Myung-bo’s reliably reliable attack options, which has been creaking since its departure. It remains to be seen whether Lee Kang-in will be able to save Hong Myung-bo in crisis from the away match in Oman.