Responsibility: Hong Yong-Jo is the only notable name in a North Korean side of relative unknowns

In a squad full of relative unknowns, Hong is the only notable name. The only North Korean to ply his trade in Europe, he was instrumental in North Korea’s first successful World Cup qualification campaign since 1966, edging out traditional Asian powerhouses Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Hong was the captain as North Korea compiled an unbeaten home record, scoring two goals against Jordan and one against bitter rivals South Korea in the process.

He currently plays for Rostov in the Russian Premier League, where he moved after spells at April 25 in his home country and FK Bezanija in Serbia.

As the only member of the side with any experience of European football, Hong is North Korea’s greatest asset. Although only a bit-part player at Rostov, he carries the North Korean front-line almost single-handedly at times, captaining the side and taking the penalties.

Known primarily for their solid defence, North Korea will rely on Hong to score the goals they need to progress any further in the competition.