Coach Jeong Jeong-yong: "Sorry for the loss in the first match after the break and at home" [Jeonju]

*This content was translated by AI.

Jeong Jeong-yong, head coach of Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, expressed regret over losing in the first match after the break.

On the 4th, Jeonbuk lost 1-2 to Gangwon FC in a home match at Jeonju World Cup Stadium as part of the Hana Bank K League 1 2026 Round 16.

Jeonbuk rested four key players who participated in the 2026 FIFA North, Central America and Caribbean World Cup: Kim Jin-gyu, Kang Sang-yoon, Jo Wi-je, and Song Beom-geun were not included in the match roster. Even so, losing the first match after the break, especially at home, was a significant blow.

As a result, Jeonbuk recorded 7 wins, 5 draws, and 4 losses (26 points), failing to move up from third place and missing an opportunity to chase the leaders.

Meanwhile, Gangwon continued their strong form with six matches without defeat (4 wins, 2 draws), including a three-game winning streak. Before the match, Gangwon was in fourth place below Jeonbuk, but this result propelled them into second place.

After the match, Coach Jeong Jeong-yong said, "The K League has resumed after the break, and I am sorry we could not secure a victory in our home match. If we had scored when the opportunity arose, it would have been favorable from multiple perspectives, but we failed to do so, which is regrettable." He added, "If we address our shortcomings, I believe we can play even better than we are doing now."

He further expressed disappointment, stating, "Gangwon applied strong pressure, and we tried to maintain our shape to draw them out and penetrate the space behind. However, it did not unfold cleanly."

He also emphasized, "It is my role to ensure the players deliver their best performance on the field."

Jeonbuk will face Ulsan HD on the 11th. Coach Jeong promised, "We will prepare well for the Hyundai derby."

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*This content was translated by AI.