Paris Saint German midfielder Lee Kang-in will be absent from representing South Korea in the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches due to an ankle injury. Coach Hong Myung-bo confirmed that Lee’s injury is not as serious as initially feared, emphasizing his commitment to the national team despite his importance to his club. During the match against Oman, Lee provided an assist to Wolverhampton striker Hwang Hee-chan before being substituted five minutes before the end of the game. South Korea currently leads Group B in the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches in Asia, with four wins and three draws in seven matches. They are on track to qualify for the final round in North America, but their recent draw against Oman has left them with only a three-point lead over Jordan and Iraq with three matches remaining in the third round. The top two teams in Group B will advance to the World Cup finals, while the third and fourth-placed teams will play in the fourth round. Lee’s absence will be felt by South Korea as they aim to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup.
