Even the opposing coach did not expect it, 'Jeonbuk's ace prospect' Kim Ye-geon makes his professional starting debut... Coach Jeong Jeong-yong: "He will have a good game" [Bucheon]

*This content was translated by AI.

Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors' 'top-tier prospect' Kim Ye-geon (18) has secured his first professional starting opportunity.

On the 16th, Jeonbuk will face Bucheon FC in an away match of the Hana Bank K League 1 2026 Round 23 at Bucheon Stadium.

Jeonbuk deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Kim Ye-geon standing out in the second line. Rising as this year's hottest star in the K League, Kim has played seven league matches in the 2026 season and recorded one goal, but this is his first time being named in the starting lineup.

Prior to the match, Bucheon's head coach Lee Young-min said he "did not expect" Kim Ye-geon to start.

Coach Jeong Jeong-yong praised Kim's selection, stating, "Bucheon's defensive organization is strong. They drop deep into their line, leaving no space. A player like Kim Ye-geon excels in ball possession and other aspects I value." He added, "If those strengths are well displayed, I believe he will have a good game," offering high praise.

Jeonbuk's attacking setup features foreign striker Mota leading the line, supported by Lee Seung-woo, Kim Ye-seon, and Lee Dong-jun. Kim Jin-gyu and Maeng Sung-woong orchestrate the midfield. The back four consists of Choi Woo-jin, Kim Young-bin, Jo Wi-je, and Kim Tae-hwan. Song Beom-keun guards the goal.

Coach Jeong Jeong-yong also expressed high expectations for Mota. He explained, "He must have a strong desire himself. To create scoring opportunities, goals are essential. Mota has always prepared diligently during training sessions, which is why he was selected to start this match."

Regarding winger Lee Seung-woo, Jeong said, "I constantly discuss his role with him. Depending on the positional situation, I give instructions, and he also defends well. He performs excellently in various aspects," offering praise.

Jeonbuk lost their previous away match against Jeju United 1-3. At that time, Lee Seung-woo committed a penalty foul in the 18th minute of the first half. However, he scored a goal in the 13th minute of the second half to redeem his mistake.

Coach Jeong Jeong-yong encouraged him, saying, "There were some regrets from the Jeju match, but he is a player with offensive capabilities who also scores goals. I continue to communicate with him based on his positional role."

Currently, Jeonbuk sits third in the league with 9 wins, 7 draws, and 6 losses (34 points). Home team Bucheon FC holds 5th place with 5 wins, 9 draws, and 8 losses (24 points). However, given the narrow gap of just two points behind Daejeon Hana Citizen (26 points), which has played one additional match, Bucheon still has room to climb the standings at any time.

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*This content was translated by AI.