K League Round 1: Can Jeonbuk Return to Championship Glory? Pohang Steelers Struggle with Striker Choice

The first round of the K League kicks off on the afternoon of March 1st, with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors looking to make a statement against Daejeon Citizen, and Ulsan Hyundai facing Pohang Steelers. Jeonbuk has invested heavily in new signings this season, and their performances in the AFC Champions League suggest these new players are in excellent form. Pohang Steelers' new striker, George, showed effort in his debut but raised concerns with his high center of gravity, leading to doubts about his effectiveness in Pohang’s attacking strategy.

Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors vs. Daejeon Citizen - Can the Champions Return?

Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, the team with the most K League titles, has watched from the sidelines as Ulsan Hyundai claimed the championship for the past two seasons. The retirement of stars like Lee Dong-gook has undeniably weakened Jeonbuk, and while they achieved five consecutive league titles from 2017 to 2021, their last title was arguably secured through their accumulated aura rather than sheer strength, as Ulsan had already surpassed them in terms of overall power by then. This season, Jeonbuk has revamped their attacking lineup with new foreign players, aiming to challenge Ulsan once again.

Their confidence was boosted by their AFC Champions League Round of 16 victory over Pohang Steelers. Last season, Jeonbuk's record against Pohang was disappointing, with only one draw and four losses in league and cup matches combined. However, in the AFC Champions League, Jeonbuk controlled the game from the start, securing a 2-0 lead in the first leg and comfortably advancing to the next round. This victory has given them renewed confidence as they aim to compete both in the AFC Champions League and the K League.

Daejeon Citizen, a second-year team in the K League, comfortably avoided relegation last season. By the end of the regular season, they were 14 points clear of Suwon FC, the third-last team, making the relegation playoffs a mere formality. Their main reason for survival was undoubtedly the outstanding performance of their top scorer, Thiago Orobo, who netted 18 goals and outperformed Ulsan’s Min-kyu Joo to become the league's top scorer last season. Daejeon’s record against Jeonbuk last season was impressive, with one win and two draws. Orobo scored in both matches he played against Jeonbuk, but this advantage is no longer theirs as Jeonbuk has acquired the prolific striker.

In the two AFC Champions League knockout games, Orobo played all 180 minutes but failed to score. This match against his former team will be a crucial test of his abilities. Jeonbuk’s enhanced squad looks set to kick off their season with a 2-0 home victory over Daejeon Citizen.

Ulsan Hyundai vs. Pohang Steelers - Last Season's Runner-Up Faces Significant Decline

Despite Ulsan Hyundai's recent success, they have often played the role of runner-up to Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. During Jeonbuk's five consecutive titles, Ulsan finished second three times, twice starting the championship playoffs with a lead. Throughout K League history, Ulsan has finished second a record ten times, while the three teams with the next most second-place finishes have done so only five times each. Nevertheless, Ulsan is currently the most balanced team in the K League, excelling both offensively and defensively.

Their dominance was evident even without foreign players, outperforming teams with such players in commanding fashion. In the recently concluded AFC Champions League Round of 16, they easily defeated J2 League side Ventforet Kofu, who, despite their limited strength, put up a full-strength fight. This gave Ulsan an excellent warm-up opportunity.

Pohang Steelers had an outstanding season last year, finishing as K League runners-up and winning the Korean FA Cup. However, this season has seen significant departures that have weakened the squad. Top scorer Zeca and key defender Alex Grant have moved to the Chinese Super League, while promising young talent and second top scorer Go Yeong-jun has joined Red Star Belgrade’s city rivals in Europe. Meanwhile, Pohang's recruitment has been lackluster, with new striker George raising doubts with his high center of gravity and questionable ability to adapt to the K League.

Defending champions Ulsan Hyundai are significantly stronger than Pohang, but with an eye on their AFC Champions League commitments next week, Ulsan is likely to take a pragmatic approach. They are expected to secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Pohang.

Jeonbuk's Tactical Reinvention and New Signings

Under the guidance of coach Kim Sang-sik, Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors have undergone a tactical overhaul this season. The arrival of new foreign attackers like Gustavo from Brazil and Japanese midfielder Takahiro Kunimoto has bolstered their offensive capabilities. In the AFC Champions League, these players showed promising chemistry and understanding on the pitch.

Gustavo's physical presence and finishing ability, combined with Kunimoto's creativity and vision, have added new dimensions to Jeonbuk's attack. The midfield, anchored by Kim Bo-kyung and Ryu Jae-moon, has shown greater fluidity and control, providing a solid link between defense and attack.

Defensively, Jeonbuk has also made significant improvements. New signings in the backline have brought more stability and reliability, addressing the vulnerabilities that plagued them last season. Goalkeeper Song Bum-keun's experience and leadership have been crucial in organizing the defense and making crucial saves.

Daejeon Citizen's Challenges and Prospects

Daejeon Citizen's main challenge this season will be to maintain their momentum and continue their progress in the K League. The departure of their top scorer Thiago Orobo to Jeonbuk is a significant blow, but the team has made some strategic signings to bolster their squad.

New acquisitions like Brazilian forward Edson Silva and South Korean midfielder Kim Ji-hun have shown potential in pre-season matches. Coach Lee Min-sung has emphasized the importance of teamwork and defensive solidity, aiming to build a cohesive unit capable of competing with the league's top teams.

Daejeon's defense, led by veteran center-back Lee Woong-hee, will need to be at their best to contain Jeonbuk's potent attack. Goalkeeper Park Joo-won will also play a key role in keeping the opposition at bay.

Pohang Steelers' Striker Dilemma and Tactical Adjustments

Pohang Steelers face a challenging season with the loss of key players and the integration of new signings. Striker George, who joined from the Brazilian league, has struggled to adapt to the K League's physical and tactical demands. His high center of gravity and lack of mobility have raised concerns about his ability to lead Pohang's attack effectively.

Coach Kim Ki-dong has been exploring alternative attacking options, including the use of more dynamic and versatile forwards like Lee Ho-jae and Kim Seung-dae. Pohang's midfield, anchored by captain Kim Sang-won and creative playmaker Lim Sang-hyub, will need to step up and provide more support to the attack.

Defensively, Pohang will rely on the experience of center-backs Ha Chang-rae and Park Ji-soo to maintain stability at the back. Goalkeeper Kang Hyeon-mu will be crucial in organizing the defense and making key saves.

Ulsan Hyundai's Depth and Rotation Strategy

Ulsan Hyundai's depth and rotation strategy will be crucial as they navigate a busy schedule with both domestic and continental commitments. Coach Hong Myung-bo has emphasized the importance of squad rotation to keep players fresh and avoid injuries.

Ulsan's attacking trio of Yoon Bit-garam, Lee Dong-jun, and Leonardo has been in scintillating form, providing goals and assists at crucial moments. The midfield, led by the experienced Shin Jin-ho and the dynamic Lee Chung-yong, has shown excellent control and creativity.

Defensively, Ulsan boasts a solid backline with Kim Kee-hee and Dave Bulthuis forming a formidable partnership. Goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo's shot-stopping abilities and command of the penalty area have been vital in maintaining clean sheets.

Anticipation and Tactical Insights for Matchday 1

As K League Round 1 approaches, the tactical battles and team dynamics promise an exciting start to the season. Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and Daejeon Citizen will both be looking to their new signings to make an impact, while Ulsan Hyundai and Pohang Steelers will be keen to start their campaigns on a positive note.

Fans can expect thrilling encounters, with Jeonbuk's revamped attack set to test Daejeon's defense, and Ulsan's balanced team likely to edge out a struggling Pohang side. The matches promise to deliver excitement and drama, reflecting the competitive nature of the K League.