K League Preview: Seoul Had a Demanding Midweek Fixture, While Gyeongju Returns to the Top But With Low Away Win Rate

On July 21 at 18:00, Matchday 24 of the K League, FC Seoul faces off against Gyeongju Sangmu.

The home team, FC Seoul, is currently mid-table. Their previous run of three consecutive wins was halted. Recently, their form in the league has been loss-win-loss. In the midweek cup match, despite fielding a strong lineup, they suffered a 1-5 defeat against Pohang Steelers. However, their home form has been good, with three straight victories in recent home games, indicating solid performance in front of their home crowd.

In terms of personnel, Jesse Lingard is injured again and will definitely miss this game. Lee Sung-mo, who provides crucial mobility in midfield, is also out due to injury and will not play. Ki Sung-yueng, who has been out long-term, continues to recover. Yoon Jong-gyu, a fringe national team-level fullback returning from military service, and Lee Sang-min, a center back from the South Korean Olympic team, have returned to the club but have missed recent Gyeongju Sangmu matches, so their fitness is uncertain. Jordan international Alaa’ Aldin has been training for some time and could be included in the squad. Winger William, who missed previous games due to injury, might also return to the squad.

The visiting team, Gyeongju Sangmu, won 4-0 against Jeonbuk Hyundai in their last match, reclaiming the top spot. They did not have a cup fixture midweek, allowing them ample time to rest and adjust. However, their away win rate is low, with only one victory in their last seven away league matches.

In terms of personnel, all soldiers from the seventh intake have now completed their military service. Kim Jun-hong, Kang Hyun-mo, Yoon Jong-gyu, Lee Sang-min, Kim Jae-u, Kim Tae-hyeon, Park Min-gyu, Koo Bum-cheol, Kim Hyun-wook, Kim Jin-gyu, Kim Dong-hyun, Won Doo-jae, Kang Hyun-mo, Kim Min-jun, Jung Ji-in, Lee Yeong-jun, and Lee Jong-min have all left the team.

New recruits have quickly integrated into the team, with Korean media describing Gyeongju Sangmu’s recent performances as “showing no signs of transition.” Key player Lee Dong-kyung is in good form, while speedy winger Lee Dong-jun is out due to injury. However, after the departure of first-choice goalkeeper Kim Jun-hong, new goalkeeper Kim Dong-hyeon has not yet reached his best form, leading to a drop in goalkeeping quality.

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