Lee Kang-in, who had been at the center of transfer speculation linking him to Atletico Madrid, contributed to Paris Saint-Germain's sixth consecutive victory in his return from injury.
Lee, 25, came on as a substitute in the 60th minute with the score at 1-1 during PSG's Ligue 1 matchday 20 away fixture against Strasbourg at Stade de la Meinau on Wednesday. He played a pivotal role in the winning goal scored in the 81st minute.
Receiving the ball near the center line, Lee shook off pressure from opposing defenders before threading a pass to Warren Zaïre-Emery on the right flank. Zaïre-Emery delivered a cross while sliding, finding Nuno Mendes perfectly positioned at the far post. Mendes then powered a header into the net.
PSG had been reduced to 10 men in the 74th minute after Achraf Hakimi received a straight red card for a reckless tackle. Lee, who had been sidelined rehabilitating a thigh muscle injury sustained during the Intercontinental Cup final against Flamengo on December 18, returned to rescue his team from a precarious situation.
PSG won 2-1 to extend their winning streak to six matches. The victory lifted them to 48 points (15 wins, 3 draws, 2 losses), overtaking Lens (46 points, 15 wins, 1 draw, 4 losses) to reclaim first place.
During his rehabilitation period, Lee had been surrounded by transfer rumors. A move to Atletico Madrid in Spain's La Liga appeared to be gaining momentum. However, PSG manager Luis Enrique stated definitively at the pre-match press conference that "Lee is an important player for us." Lee then solidified his standing within the squad by delivering a crucial performance in a match that determined the league leaders.