K League 1 Preview: Jeonbuk Hyundai Aims for Second-Half Surge, Jeju United’s Defense Nears Full Strength

At 18:00 on September 28, the 32nd round of K League 1, Jeonbuk Hyundai hosts Jeju United at their home ground.

With only two rounds remaining in the regular season, all positions in the championship and relegation groups have been determined. Both Jeonbuk Hyundai and Jeju United are confirmed to be in the relegation group, inevitably drawn into a fierce battle against relegation. The points difference between the two teams is only four points, making this a crucial six-point clash.

The home team, Jeonbuk Hyundai, has remained unbeaten in their last five league matches, officially beginning their comeback. The main reason for getting back on track is the stabilization of their defense. They have managed to keep a clean sheet in their last four games, with Kim Jun-hong returning from military service and Hong Jeong-ho recovering from injury performing well. The offensive end, however, has not been highly efficient, scoring only three goals in the other four matches during their unbeaten streak, aside from the 6-0 victory over the unstable Suwon FC. Head coach Kim Do-hyun currently prioritizes mobility and defense in his tactics, often benching key attackers, hoping to take control in the second half.

In terms of personnel, Song Min-gyu, who suffered a shoulder injury in the previous match, will definitely miss this game. Yeom Ji-yun, who was brought in with much difficulty during the summer transfer window, also continues to be sidelined due to injury.

The team will face Muangthong United at home on October 3. In their last AFC Champions League match, they fielded players outside the 18-man squad, not affecting the fitness of the main lineup. However, for this match at home, some key players are expected to play.

The visiting team, Jeju United, won 2-0 against Gwangju FC in the last round, turning misfortune into fortune after a 0-4 defeat, providing some relief.

The team’s defensive line has seen the return of three mainstays, significantly enhancing their resilience. Lim Chae-min, who previously suffered a severe jaw injury, has finally recovered and become the leader of the defense. Another defensive stalwart, Song Ju-hyun, also returned to the starting lineup and performed steadily in the last match. Left-back Lee Ju-young has also fully recovered, further enhancing the stability and depth of the defense.

In terms of injuries, Choi Yong-jun continues to recover from a long-term injury. Nam Tae-hee has recently been absent due to muscle discomfort, and whether he plays in this match will be decided just before kickoff.

In terms of head-to-head records, both teams have won once in their two encounters this season, evenly matched, with each securing a victory at their respective home grounds. Notably, Jeonbuk Hyundai has dominated Jeju United in their last ten home meetings, winning eight, drawing one, and losing one, giving them a significant psychological advantage when facing Jeju United at home.

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