K League 1 Preview: Relegation Battle as Daejeon faces “Bogey Team” Incheon

On August 17 at 18:30, the 27th round of K1 League, Daejeon Hana Citizen hosts Incheon United at home.

The home team, Daejeon Hana Citizen, won their last match against Suwon FC, escaping the bottom spot and emerging from the shadow of seven winless games. Although they have only one victory in the past six rounds, they managed to score in each of those games, showing a fighting spirit and possessing some counter-attacking ability.

Daejeon, not lacking funds, made a flurry of signings during the summer window. Kelvin, brought in from Ulsan, has already scored, while Japanese import Masatoshi Ishida is on fire, his return enhancing the team’s scoring capability. Bertolla (registered name changed to Babuxin), acquired from Daegu, quickly settled in, becoming the midfield maestro for the team.

The good news for Daejeon is that several injured players are close to returning. Veteran Kim Sung-da appeared in the previous game, while forward Go Tae-kuk and speedster Kim In-gyun among others, are also nearing recovery and ready to return at any time. Midfield general Chu Se-jung is back from suspension and available today. However, defensive stalwart Anton’s participation in this game remains uncertain.

The away team, Incheon United, won their last match, giving new manager Choi Yong-geun a winning start. Choi Yong-geun’s arrival has significantly altered the team’s playing style, changing from a three-man defense that relied on counterattacks to a more offensive four-man defense system overnight. The team now plays more directly and at a faster pace.

In terms of personnel, winger Gelson has resumed normal training and has a 50% chance of returning in this game. However, Australian center-back Delbridge is injured and will definitely miss the game. Former super-sub Song Si-woo is also injured and unable to play.

From recent head-to-head records, Incheon United can be called the “Daejeon Killer.” In the last eleven encounters, Incheon United has never lost to Daejeon, drawing once and winning all ten other matches. Incheon United’s last loss to Daejeon was over eleven years ago. Psychologically, Incheon United holds an advantage.

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