Jeonbuk tries to win ACL 2 consecutive games at home. Thailand's Muang Tong rematch after 11 years
Oct 01, 2024
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Jeonbuk Hyundai, which fell to the bottom of the K League 1 in the early and mid-season this season, is gradually recovering its pride at the end of the season. Thanks to the rise of the league's six undefeated games (4 wins and 2 draws), the league moved up to ninth. Now I am in a position to escape a little from the worries of 'recent'.
It is a poor ranking compared to the status of a prestigious club that once led the K-League. Still, it is worth positively evaluating that it is recovering from the worst crisis and regaining its former status. Director Kim Doo-hyun's leadership is also gradually stabilizing.
Jeonbuk, which is gradually regaining its strong team, is also trying to win back-to-back games in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League 2. The opponent is Muangtong United, a powerhouse in Thailand who will meet again for the first time in 11 years.
Jeonbuk will play the second round of the AFC Champions League 2 group qualifying round against Muangtong at Jeonju World Cup Stadium at 5 p.m. on the 3rd. ACL2 is a second-tier club football competition organized by the Asian Football Confederation. The existing AFC Cup tournament was renamed AFC Champions League 2 from 2024-2025 season.
Jeonbuk was in Group H along with Muangtong United (Thailand), Slangor FC (Malaysia), and Cebu FC (Philippines). Currently, Jeonbuk ranks first in the group. On the 19th of last month, he completed the first step smoothly by defeating Cebu FC 6-0 in the first leg of an away game in Manila, Philippines. In the first leg, Muangtong and Slangor played in a 1-1 draw. Cebu is at the bottom.
Jeonbuk is determined to secure its No. 1 position in the group by winning the second game against Muangtong on its home turf. If you make the most of the advantages of home games, there is a good chance. He meets Muangtong again after 11 years. We met in the group qualifying round of the 2013 AFFC Champions League. At that time, he showed strong performance with one win and one draw. They drew 2-2 on the road, but won 2-0 at home in Jeonju to advance to the round of 16.
Of course, it is difficult to run the best power. Jeonbuk is set to play against Daegu FC in the 33rd round of the K League 1 on the 6th. There is only two points difference from Daegu in 10th place, so victory is necessary. If you lose, you can go back down to the relegation zone. Best power should be saved for this time.
In the end, coach Kim Doo-hyun has no choice but to operate the rotation as a B team focused on young players. Attention is focusing on whether Jeonbuk's young spirit will lead to the energy of victory.
wman@sportschosun.com
