'How happy must they have been' to kneel and roar → Gimhae finally wins... Secures first professional victory by defeating Jeonnam

*This content was translated by AI.

Gimhae FC2008, a 'new team' in professional soccer's K League 2, secured a thrilling first professional victory.

On the 23rd, Gimhae defeated Jeonnam Dragons in an away match at Gwangyang Football Stadium in the Hana Bank K League 2 2026 Round 13, winning 1-0. In the 27th minute of the second half, a fortunate own goal, combined with a solid defensive organization, led to their first professional win in 12 matches, while also achieving a clean sheet.

As a result, Gimhae recorded 1 win, 2 draws, and 9 losses (5 points). Although they remain in 17th place, the lowest in the league, they narrowed the gap by defeating 16th-place Jeonnam. Hope for escaping the bottom spot has grown. Currently, Jeonnam holds 1 win, 4 draws, and 7 losses (7 points).

Even though Jeonnam has been in a deep slump this season, they were still a formidable opponent. Especially given the away match context, this game was expected to be a major hurdle, but Gimhae turned the tables. When the final whistle signaling victory blew, the Gimhae players roared strongly on the field.

Gimhae's foreign striker Maissa Paul was captured on the broadcast screen kneeling and raising both arms in a shout of joy. It was a scene that showed how desperately the Gimhae players wanted this victory.

The match was led by chief coach Choi Myeong-seong as the acting manager due to head coach Son Hyun-jun's sick leave. The formation was 3-5-2. Lee Seung-jae and Maissa Paul started as the two strikers, with Beka, Lee Jun-kyu, and Sung Ho-young deployed in midfield. Lee Yu-chan and Pyo Geon-hee stood on both flanks. The three center-backs were Choi Jun-young, Lee Jae-jun, and Lee Jae-yul, while 'Captain' Choi Pil-soo guarded the goal.

Jeonnam dominated the overall match atmosphere. They led 18-10 in total shots and also had more effective shots, with 9 compared to Gimhae's 5.

However, Gimhae did not miss crucial opportunities. In the 27th minute of the second half, Pyo Geon-hee's shot was blocked by the opposing defense, but Beka connected with a follow-up shot on the loose ball. The ball deflected off Jeonnam defender Yu Ji-ha and went into the goal. Jeonnam goalkeeper Choi Bong-jin was unable to react in time.

Gimhae, having established good momentum, stopped Jeonnam's attacks with a counter-attack strategy after defending first. In the late stages of the second half, they substituted in Seol Hyun-jin and Lee Seul-chan to focus on maintaining their one-goal lead. Ultimately, Gimhae secured the historic three points. Goalkeeper Choi Pil-soo of Gimhae made several key saves throughout the match, laying the foundation for the team's victory.

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*This content was translated by AI.