'2-game scoreless, unbeaten': Daegu FC's dramatic turnaround, Coach Choi Sung-yong: "No structural changes, just players' efforts" [Suwon]

*This content was translated by AI.

Daegu FC head coach Choi Sung-yong, who recorded back-to-back scoreless draws, said the team's significantly improved atmosphere was not due to major structural changes but rather a shift in the players' mindset.

Choi made these remarks at a press conference immediately following the 0-0 away draw against Suwon Samsung in the 11th round of the Hana Bank K League 2 2026, held at Suwon World Cup Stadium on the 9th.

Choi took over as Daegu's manager last month after the team fell into a slump of five consecutive matches without a win (two draws, three losses), prompting former coach Kim Byung-soo to step down. Under Choi's leadership, Daegu secured a 2-0 victory over Gyeongnam FC on the 3rd and followed it with a 0-0 draw against Suwon today, gaining momentum.

Notably, Daegu had previously conceded two or more goals in seven consecutive matches, with their defense severely shaken. However, since Choi's appointment, the team has kept two consecutive scoreless clean sheets, showcasing a dramatically improved performance.

Regarding the improved defense, Choi stated, "I believe the players have understood through training what they need to do, which is why things have improved. This is the result of their efforts."

He continued, "Our recent analysis of the K League shows that many matches are decided after the 70th minute (25 minutes into the second half). That's why we brought on Giovani and Edgar after the 70th minute today to create opportunities. Suwon likely targeted the same period as well. The match became intense after that point."

He added, "We faced an enthusiastic Suwon team and believe we both played a good match. Just as today's game was a fresh start, we will strive to secure a victory in the next match."

Regarding goalkeeper Han Tae-hee, who made a series of impressive saves, Choi said, "Despite being only 22 years old, he has taken on the role of the first-choice goalkeeper. If he improves his build-up play, we expect him to become an even better player."

With today's draw, Daegu accumulated 15 points (4 wins, 3 draws, 3 losses), maintaining their 6th-place position in the K League 2. Daegu will face Gimhae FC at Gimhae Stadium on the 17th.

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*This content was translated by AI.