"Whether jeered and cursed, or praised..." Suwon Samsung manager Lee Jeong-hyo, determined to win ahead of the fateful Suwon Derby [Suwon Field]

*This content was translated by AI.

He even threw out his signature fiery resolve for victory. Ahead of a matchup against local rival SuwonFC, Suwon Samsung manager Lee Jeong-hyo pledged to win.

Suwon and SuwonFC will face off at 7:30 p.m. on the 15th at Suwon World Cup Stadium in a Hana Bank K League 2 2026 Round 22 match.

Speaking to reporters before the game, manager Lee Jeong-hyo said, "We must win. This is an important match." He added, "During our first matchup this year, the team's performance was improving and players were gaining confidence, but we struggled due to injuries. We've now climbed to first place, and to maintain that position, the match against SuwonFC is crucial."

Suwon has recorded two wins and two draws in their last four matches, moving into sole possession of first place in K League 2. With 12 wins, 4 draws, and 4 losses in 20 games (40 points), they have extended their lead over second-place Seoul E-Land (20 games, 37 points) to three points.

However, it is still too early to relax. SuwonFC, with 10 wins, 6 draws, and 3 losses in 19 matches (36 points), is closing the gap aggressively. SuwonFC has gone unbeaten in their last seven games, recording four wins and three draws, showing formidable momentum.

In a way, this matchup could be the turning point of the season. The standings in the upper tier of K League 2 are extremely tight. Leading with 40 points is Suwon, followed closely by second-place Seoul E-Land (37 points), third-place SuwonFC (36 points), and fourth-place Busan IPark (36 points). A victory for Suwon would significantly bolster their hold on sole first place, but a loss could allow sixth-place Hwaseong FC (20 games, 35 points) to close in.

For today's match, Suwon will deploy Haes and Kim Gyeol up front, with Bruno Silva, Ko Seung-beom, Jung Ho-yeon, and Fessin in midfield. Lee Sang-min, Ko Jong-hyun, Hong Jeong-ho, and Lee Geon-hee will form the back four, while Kim Jun-hong will be in goal.

Regarding striker Kim Gyeol's inclusion in the starting lineup, manager Lee Jeong-hyo explained, "We gave him a specific tactical role. After analyzing the opponent, we felt we needed a tall striker to maximize Suwon's strengths." He continued, "Kim Gyeol was physically ready for this challenge, and we are considering substituting him later in the game to manage Duwitsak's playing time."

Addressing his recent criticism of young players, Lee Jeong-hyo stated, "As an adult, I must provide clear feedback when younger players make mistakes. I cannot simply overlook issues just to avoid drawing attention; public reprimands were necessary." He added, "Only then will the players change. Many players quietly prepare for matches without seeking recognition, but if those who receive opportunities display poor attitudes, criticism is required. There were also instances where they failed to keep promises made with me."

Statistically, this matchup represents a clash of spear and shield. Suwon has conceded only 17 goals—the fewest in the league—while SuwonFC has scored 39 goals, tying Daegu FC (20 games) for the most in the league.

Overcoming their poor head-to-head record is also a challenge. Coincidentally, Suwon has historically struggled against SuwonFC. During their time in K League 1, they lost three of four matchups in 2023 (one win, three losses), and they fell 1-3 to SuwonFC in their first meeting this May. Despite scoring the opening goal, Suwon collapsed in the second half, conceding three consecutive goals.

On this matter, manager Lee Jeong-hyo remarked, "In football, it ultimately comes down to scoring goals. Rather than a matter of team matchups, in our previous encounters, Suwon failed to convert chances while SuwonFC did."

Regarding the intense atmosphere of this fierce rivalry, he said, "Whether we receive praise or face jeers and curses, one of those two outcomes is inevitable. This is about Suwon's pride. The players are well aware of the mood following our first-round defeat and have prepared accordingly. I believe they will trust each other and accept the match result."

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*This content was translated by AI.