KOREA REPUBLIC – LEE SEUNG-WOO
That Korea Republic will not be able to provide another packed house in this U-20 World Cup is a disappointment, but as the senior team struggles to qualify for 2018 under embattled head coach Uli Stielike it was encouraging to see the country’s young generation demonstrate their potential.
Amongst the key players in Shin Tae-yong’s squad were a pair of Barcelona academy members in attackers Lee Seung-woo and Paik Seung-ho, who combined for four goals in the group stage. Lee in particular earned deserved plaudits his ripping goal against early Group A favorites Argentina.
The player known as the “Korean Messi” still needs time to progress before he finds his way onto a senior squad – whether in Europe or for the Taeguk Warriors – but he will undoubtedly become a force to be reckoned with.