'Jeonju secured, now 2nd' Coach Jeong Kyung-ho: "60 to 70 minutes went according to our plan" [On-site in Jeonju]

*This content was translated by AI.

Gangwon FC has climbed to second place in the league. Like two years ago, they are once again entering the race for the championship.

On the 4th, Gangwon secured a thrilling 2-1 away victory against Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors at the Jeonju World Cup Stadium in Round 16 of the Hana Bank K League 1 2026.

Before the match, Coach Jeong Kyung-ho emphasized the importance of facing Jeonbuk. He said, "The seven-week break passed quickly. We prepared as best we could, but our first game was against a strong team like Jeonbuk. It was also an away match. This game is extremely important for both us and Jeonbuk in the standings race. I believe the players will perform well, so I will fight hard."

There were concerns, but the result was favorable. Gangwon took a 2-0 lead with consecutive goals from Song Jun-seok and Lee Yu-hyun. Although they conceded a consolation goal to opposing striker Lee Seung-woo, there was no major issue in securing the victory.

As a result, Gangwon extended their unbeaten run over six matches (four wins, two draws), including three consecutive victories. Their season record now stands at seven wins, six draws, and three losses (27 points), moving them up from fourth to second place. They have also begun closing the gap on the top-ranked FC Seoul (32 points).

After the match, Coach Jeong said, "We prepared well during the seven-week break. It was a difficult away trip, and we faced an exceptional team in the K League. However, many Gangwon fans traveled to support us even though it was an away game. Their presence provided great motivation and strength to the players."

Continuing, Coach Jeong stated, "For 60 to 70 minutes, we executed according to our timing and plan. It seems this match helped Gangwon develop further. Although there were issues after the second half's final 20 minutes, I do not believe it is possible to press the opponent for the entire 90 minutes. We did concede a goal, but the players fought well and responded intelligently. I felt that Gangwon is moving in a positive direction."

Coach Jeong is guiding his players with detailed and meticulous tactics. Even in pressing strategies, there are various types implemented not only individually but also as a team. This was a key factor in their victory against Jeonbuk and explains why Gangwon has been on a sharp upward trajectory this season.

Coach Jeong explained, "It's not 100%, but the players understand our tactics almost perfectly and strive to implement them on the field. Football can never be 100% satisfying. We prepare for various situations, such as when the game unfolds or when we face counters. The players understand well and share how to respond in each situation."

He added, "Although winning our first match after the break provided motivation, I consider this just part of the process. I believe results will come only when we pour all aspects of our attack, defense, and transition style onto the field. If we can express these elements on the pitch, we will be ready to accept the final outcome at the end of the season."

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*This content was translated by AI.