Lee Han-beom Seizes His Moment – South Korean Defender Shines in Midtjylland’s Backline

After months of patience, Lee impresses coaching staff and captain alike with commanding performances in the heart of defence.

Lee Han-beom has finally arrived at FC Midtjylland — and he’s making sure everyone knows it.

The 22-year-old South Korean centre-back, who joined the Danish outfit in 2023, had spent much of his early months on the bench. But after stepping in for the suspended Ousmane Diao three matches ago, Lee has locked down a starting spot with a series of assured displays, earning praise from both head coach Thomas Thomasberg and club captain Mads Bech.

Having waited patiently for his opportunity, Lee was handed a start following Diao’s red card against FC Nordsjælland. Since then, he has started three consecutive matches — including a standout performance away to FC Copenhagen at Parken Stadium on Sunday.

“He had won all his games before today, so now he’s no longer unbeaten,” Thomasberg joked after the match. “But I think he played very well. He was strong in duels, positioned himself smartly, and was solid on the ball. It was a really good performance.”

The timing couldn’t have been worse for Diao, who has remained on the bench since his suspension — a reflection of the competition within Midtjylland’s defensive ranks. Thomasberg acknowledged Diao’s quality but emphasised that the current centre-back pairing, including Lee, had earned their spot.

“Diao has done well too, but his suspension came just before we dominated Nordsjælland in the next game. That’s football when you’re in a competitive squad — Lee took his chance and he’s done well,” said the coach. “He waited a long time to show what he can do, and now he’s doing exactly that.”

Captain Mads Bech echoed the praise, especially impressed by Lee’s composure in high-pressure situations like the one at Parken.

“I think he’s done very well,” Bech said. “I told him after the match — we defended the box brilliantly, and he was in the way of everything. He hasn’t played that many games, but to go into such a big match and perform like that is impressive.”

“He has a very solid floor — he’s disciplined, sticks to the game plan, and does what’s asked of him. His ability to handle pressure in a match of that magnitude shows his quality.”

Lee’s current contract with Midtjylland runs until the summer of 2027, and with form like this, he may be playing an increasingly central role for the Danish contenders.