'Penalty kick takers born in 2006, 2007, and 2008': Gangwon FC's bold move... 'Strong-hearted' players averaging just 19 years old led the team to the quarterfinals

*This content was translated by AI.

Gangwon FC has achieved two goals at once: victory and youth development through the Korea Cup.

On the 19th at 7:30 p.m., Gangwon FC secured a thrilling victory via penalty shootout against SeongnamFC in their home match for the Round of 16 of the 2026–2027 Hana Bank Korea Cup, held at GangneungHigh1 Resort Arena.

After a scoreless 0-0 draw through regular time and extra time, Gangwon advanced to the quarterfinals thanks to goalkeeper Jo Min-gyu's crucial saves and the composure of their young, promising penalty takers.

The match yielded valuable results beyond just the win. By fielding numerous young players against SeongnamFC, Gangwon confirmed the potential of its youth resources.

In the starting lineup, Karim (30), Jo Min-gyu (23), and Jo Won-woo (21) made their debuts in Gangwon FC jerseys. For Jo Min-gyu and Jo Won-woo, this was their first professional match.

Substitutes Choi Ji-nam (19), Lee Yong-jae (19), and Lee Eun-ho (18) also made their professional debuts on this day. Additionally, young players such as Yu Byung-heon (20) and Lee Hyo-bin (19) took to the field.

Notably, Jo Min-gyu and Lee Yong-jae are products of Gangneung Jeil High School, the club's affiliated U-18 team. Gangwon FC continues to develop professional players through its consistent strengthening of the youth system.

There was further cause for celebration. Lee Yong-jae and Lee Hyo-bin were named in the final 23-man squad announced on the 20th for the 2027 AFC U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers.

Gangwon's young talents tirelessly ran across the pitch during their allotted time, injecting energy into the team. They showed determination and fighting spirit by immediately rising after falls to press opponents.

In particular, Jo Won-woo, who played the full 90 minutes, demonstrated active involvement in both attack and defense, leaving a clear impression. Substitutes also poured everything they had into their brief appearances.

The highlight of the match was undoubtedly the penalty shootout. Gangwon deployed Yu Byung-heon, Lee Yong-jae, Choi Ji-nam, Lee Hyo-bin, and Lee Eun-ho as its first five penalty takers. Yu Byung-heon was born in 2006; Lee Yong-jae, Choi Ji-nam, and Lee Hyo-bin were born in 2007; and Lee Eun-ho was born in 2008.

The average age of the first five takers was just 19 years old.

Although penalty shootouts carry immense pressure, the young players remained unfazed. The promising penalty takers showcased their 'strong hearts' and led the team to victory. In goal, Jo Min-gyu, born in 2003, stood firmly as a reliable presence.

Head coach Jeong Kyung-ho's tactical acumen also shone through his bold decision to field young players and even assign them penalty duties.

In the post-match press conference, Coach Jeong said, "It is very positive that our players delivered results. I want to tell them they did well." He added, "They performed well in this match, but I hope they continue to develop and strive even harder moving forward."

He further stated, "The energy of the players who gave their all for the team was excellent. I believe there will come a time when we can utilize young players like Jo Min-gyu and Jo Won-woo more actively. Through this opportunity, I hope they grow even more."

Meanwhile, Gangwon FC's opponent in the Korea Cup quarterfinals will be determined through a future re-draw.

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*This content was translated by AI.