The South Korean national football team has been making waves in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, and much of their success can be attributed to the return of Hwang Hee-Chan. Initially sidelined with a hip injury, Hwang's absence raised concerns for South Korea. However, his comeback has proven to be a game-changer for the Taegeuk Warriors.
In their first two matches against Bahrain and Jordan, Hwang was unable to play. South Korea managed to secure four points from these games, including a surprising 2-2 draw with Jordan. Despite a disappointing 3-3 draw against Malaysia, South Korea did enough to advance to the knockout round of the tournament.
The return of Hwang brought joy to South Korean fans during the match against Malaysia, where he made a substitute appearance in the 62nd minute. Since then, Hwang's presence on the field has coincided with the Taegeuk Warriors overcoming tough challenges and progressing to the semifinals. They are now just two wins away from becoming Asian champions for the third time in their history.
While captain Son Heung-Min has been the main star of the South Korean team for several years, Hwang's emergence as a stellar supporting player has boosted their chances of success. Alongside players like Kim Min-Jae, considered one of the best center-backs in European football, and Lee Kang-In, who is fulfilling his potential at Paris Saint-Germain, Hwang has taken his game to the next level.
Hwang's journey to this point has been impressive. He formed a formidable attacking trio with Erling Haaland and Takumi Minamino at Red Bull Salzburg in the Austrian Bundesliga. While his teammates moved on to bigger clubs, Hwang initially joined RB Leipzig and later signed with Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League. In his current campaign, the 28-year-old has already surpassed his previous goal tally, netting ten goals so far, putting him in an elite group of Premier League scorers.
Hwang has also proven himself to be a player who shines in important moments. In the Asian Cup, his return from injury led to crucial contributions. In the round of 16 matchup against Saudi Arabia, his direct running caused problems for the opposition, ultimately helping South Korea secure a dramatic equalizer in the 99th minute. In the subsequent penalty shootout, Hwang maintained his composure and scored the winning spot-kick, propelling South Korea to victory.
During the quarterfinal match against Australia, Hwang once again showcased his ability to make an impact. When South Korea won a penalty deep into added time, it was Hwang, not Son, who stepped up to convert and take the game into extra time. Furthermore, Hwang won a freekick on the edge of the box, setting the stage for Son to score a superb freekick and secure the win.
While Son remains the main man and a crucial factor in South Korea's quest for their first Asian Cup crown since 1960, he now has a strong supporting cast. Players like Kim, Lee, and goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-Woo have all stepped up to contribute to the team's success. However, the return of Hwang Hee-Chan, initially absent due to injury, has undoubtedly bolstered South Korea's charge into the final stages of the Asian Cup.
With Hwang back on the field and firing on all cylinders, South Korea has a more well-rounded and potent attacking force. As they continue their campaign, expectations are high that this talented team, led by Son and supported by players like Hwang, can go all the way and claim the Asian Cup title once again.
