Introduction
South Korean international footballer Hwang Hee-chan has been in the UK since August 2020, plying his trade in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Reports suggest that the 24-year-old is already becoming an integral part of the Wolves’ squad. However, he recently faced a struggle after his team’s 3-2 loss to Leicester City in the Cup.
Hwang Hee-chan’s Test in Wolverhampton
Leading The Line
Hwang has been a viable option for manager Nuno Espirito Santo in his rotation of attacking personnel. Often leading the line as a central forward in the Portuguese tactician’s 3-4-3 system, Hee-chan has had to use his quickness and agility to get into dangerous positions in the final third. During the Leicester City match, Hwang was up against one of the league’s meanest defences, but his relentless running and off the ball movement had Leicester on their toes throughout the match.
The Wolves Close But No Cigar
Despite Hwang’s performance, Leicester City powered their way to a 3-2 victory, with a brace from Jamie Vardy. Hwang himself came close to scoring an equaliser in the second half, latching onto a clever Joao Moutinho flick which was parried to safety by Kasper Schmeichel in the Leicester goal. However, it was not to be and the Foxes advanced to the next round of the competition.
Lifting Spirits
Hwang is a positive talisman for the Wolves, his enthusiasm and leadership on the pitch have gone a long way in lifting the morale of the team. Despite the Wolves’ first round Cup exit, Hee-chan is sure to be a key part to their continued push for the top of the Premier League table.
Leicester City Emerge Victorious
Vardy Tops Off The Double
Veteran Jamie Vardy was the difference in the match, with the 33-year-old notching an incredible brace to add to his 19 league goals so far this season. He opened the scoring with a magnificent left-footed chip to beat Rui Patricio in the Wolves’ goal. A VAR disallowed goal and a spectacular equaliser from Pedro Neto had threatened to derail Leicester’s Cup campaign.
Schmeichel Saves The Day
Vardy stepped up again in the second half to provide Leicester with a crucial lead but not before Kasper Schmeichel had made a crucial last-ditch save from Hwang’s shot. The veteran Dane proved his worth in the Foxes’ goal and ensured his team remained in the competition.
Winging Their Way To Wembley
Leicester City will now face Southampton in the quarter finals, the first step on their road to possible glory at Wembley. Given their current form, many are tipping the Foxes as one of the frontrunners for the Cup this season.
Conclusion
Despite the Wolves’ 3-2 loss to Leicester City, Hwang Hee-chan’s performance provides plenty of hope going forward. The young South Korean has already become an important player in Nuno’s rotation of attackers and he is sure to prove crucial in their bid to qualify for the Champions League this season. Meanwhile, Leicester City are sure to be one of the frontrunners for the Cup this season, with Vardy and Schmeichel proving vital parts in their progression to the quarter-finals.