In just 19 games → only one win at home... FC Anyang manager Yoo Byung-hoon declares "counter-attack," vows, "We will never back down" [Anyang on-site]

*This content was translated by AI.

A victory could lead to a top-tier finish. FC Anyang manager Yoo Byung-hoon is targeting three points.

Anyang will host Hana Bank K League 1 2026 Round 20 against Gangwon at Anyang Comprehensive Stadium on the 26th at 7:30 p.m.

Anyang urgently needs a home victory. Since their 2-1 win over JejuSK on March 8, they have recorded five draws and two losses without a single home win.

Before the match, manager Yoo Byung-hoon told reporters, "We have consistently emphasized to the players the pressure of securing a home win or a winning streak since training began. After scoring first in the recent draw against GwangjuFC (1-1) but ultimately conceding, I believe the sense of loss and emptiness was even greater." He added, "Since we must also manage the players' psychology, we emphasized focusing more on the process than just the result."

Currently, Anyang has recorded 26 goals scored and 22 conceded this season, riding a positive momentum. They have secured three points steadily with two wins and one draw in their last three matches. After earning a narrow 1-0 away victory against Incheon United immediately following the World Cup break, Anyang drew 1-1 at home against GwangjuFC, then claimed a thrilling 3-2 away win over BucheonFC1995 in Round 19 on the 22nd.

Gangwon, their opponent, has gone unbeaten in their last nine matches (five wins, four draws), showing fierce momentum. However, manager Yoo Byung-hoon has historically had the upper hand against Gangwon's manager Jeong Kyung-ho. In all matchups against Jeong Kyung-ho, Yoo Byung-hoon has never suffered a defeat.

Starting with a decisive 2-0 home victory over Gangwon on April 6 last year, followed by a commanding 3-1 away win at Gangwon on May 28, the two teams drew 1-1 in an away match against Gangwon on October 5 and again in a head-to-head clash on March 15 this year. Against manager Jeong Kyung-ho, Yoo Byung-hoon continues his unbeaten run with four matches played: two wins and two draws.

Manager Yoo stated, "Gangwon's work rate and pressing have reached peak levels, but Anyang will not back down and plans to apply counter-pressing. Rather than shrinking back, we intend to engage proactively," previewing a direct confrontation.

He continued, "It is difficult to stop Gangwon's pressure using our usual approach. We have prepared to make an extra move when caught under their press." He explained, "The most crucial role will be played by Blaze, who will enter in the second half alongside Elkurano, to retain possession, defend, and link up with teammates."

Manager Yoo Byung-hoon has named Knezevic, along with midfielders Kim Jung-hyun and Mateus, as starters for the Gangwon match. The front three will consist of Choi Geon-ju, Elkurano, and Yukichi, while the back four will be handled by Kim Dong-jin, Kwon Kyung-won, Lee Chang-yong, and Kang Ji-hoon. Goalkeeper Kim Jung-hoon will guard the net.

Regarding Yukichi, manager Yoo said, "Although Yukichi has been out for a while, he is now in condition to play at least 45 minutes. Given Gangwon's strong pressing, we decided to start him with ball possession and passing battles in mind." He added, "With attackers returning to the lineup, our options have expanded. As temperatures rise and consecutive matches continue, utilizing substitutes in the second half will be critical."

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*This content was translated by AI.