[News Figures] Will He Score Again Against Italy... 'Goal-Scoring Defender' Choi Seok-hyun

U-20 National Team Achieves Consecutive Semifinal Appearances
Leads to Semifinals with Winning Headers in Quarterfinals and Semifinals
Short Stature but Excellent Jumping Ability and Positioning Skills

South Korea advanced to the semifinals of the FIFA Under-20 (U-20) World Cup with an undefeated streak (3 wins, 2 draws). This marks their second consecutive appearance in the semifinals. On the 9th at 6 a.m. (Korean time), they will compete against Italy for a spot in the final at La Plata’s La Plata Stadium in Argentina.

On the way to the semifinals, Choi Seok-hyun (Dankook University) emerged as a 'goal-scoring defender' by scoring winning headers in two consecutive matches.

On the 5th, in the quarterfinal match against Nigeria held at Santiago del Estero Stadium in Argentina, Choi scored a goal by heading Lee Seung-won's cross during a corner kick in the 5th minute of the first half of extra time. His first on-target shot immediately became the winning goal.

In the previous round of 16 match against Ecuador, with Korea leading 2-1, Choi connected a header to a corner kick delivered by Lee Seung-won in the 3rd minute of the second half. This goal by Choi Seok-hyun became the decisive winning goal that secured Korea’s place in the quarterfinals.

On the afternoon of the 4th (local time) at the Santiago del Estero Stadium in Argentina, Choi Seok-hyun is celebrating after scoring a header goal in the first half of extra time during the 2023 FIFA Under-20 World Cup quarterfinal match between Korea and Nigeria. [Image source=Yonhap News]

Born in 2003, Choi Seok-hyun graduated from Ulsan Hyundai Middle and High School, the youth team of K League 1’s Ulsan Hyundai, and enrolled at Dankook University last year. Standing at 178 cm, he is not particularly tall for a central defender, as they usually exceed 180 cm. However, he has excellent jumping ability, fast speed, and strong physical strength, making him proficient in physical battles.

Regarding his jumping ability, Park Ki-wook, former coach who trained Choi during his time at Ulsan Hyundai High School, told Sports Chosun in an interview, "He often scored in important matches during high school. His jumping ability was exceptionally good." In addition, his quick feet, precise positioning, and outstanding heading skills contribute to his strong defensive performance.

Choi Seok-hyun is regarded as an 'attacking defender' because he gained experience playing not only as a center back but also as a fullback during his high school years. This is believed to reflect his high understanding of game tactics. In fact, until middle school, Choi played as a winger, then switched to side back after entering high school. Later, due to an injury to the starting center back during high school, Choi took over that position. This versatility explains his ability to play multiple positions.

Before the match against Italy, Choi showed strong confidence. In an interview after the quarterfinal match against Nigeria, he said, "Today’s game was the biggest hurdle, but I’m happy we secured the win despite being very fatigued. We will prepare well for the Italy match and play a good game."