Gi-hyuk Lee

Does part in World Cup opener

Lee logged eight clearances and three interceptions in Thursday's 2-1 win against Czechia.

Analysis: Korea Republic used a three-defender formation, with Lee being its least well-known defender of a trio featuring Bayern veteran Kim Min-Jae and Midtjylland youngster Han-Beom Lee. Nonetheless, he more than did his part defensively, leading the Koreans in clearances and interceptions. Unfortunately for Lee, he was the game's only player to be booked, due to a post-whistle clearance when Czechia earned a late foul in Korean territory. Even though Lee will have to be careful in future games, his most recent effort and South Korea's subsequent result suggest he has earned a regular role.