‘AG member return’ + ‘injury’, Final A split round ‘maximum variables’
The biggest variables in the Final A split round are the return of Asian Games representatives and injuries.
After 33 rounds, which concluded this past weekend, the K League 1 has split into two worlds. Ulsan Hyundai, Pohang Steelers, Gwangju FC, Jeonbuk Hyundai, Daegu FC, and Incheon United have clinched a spot in Final A. FC Seoul, Daejeon Hana Citizens, Jeju United, Suwon FC, Gangwon FC, and Suwon Samsung made up Final B. Final A will determine the winner and a spot in the Asian Champions League (ACL), while Final B will determine the relegated teams.
After five games in the split round, the final standings will be determined. The K League 1 is a fierce battle across all divisions. Especially in Final A, the competition for the title and the fight for the ACL is fierce. It is bound to fluctuate with small variables. The most eye-catching is the effect of the return of the Asian Games members. Members who returned home with gold medals immediately joined their teams. Literally thousands of them. These players were key resources before they were sent out, so it’s even more exciting to see them back. Add to that the fact that they received a special exemption from military service for winning the gold medal, and the expectations are bound to be even higher.
The team with the most smiles is Jeonbuk. Jeonbuk fielded a whopping five players, including Baek Seung-ho, Park Jin-seop, Song Min-kyu, Park Jae-yong, and Kim Jung-hoon. They narrowly missed out on a spot in the Final A, but juggling the Asian Champions League and the league made their absence felt. Jeonbuk returned to full strength with five players. Their return will be a big boost for Jeonbuk, who will be looking to redeem themselves in the split round and hope to finish as high as second.토토사이트
‘Leaders’ Ulsan Hyundai, who have been struggling lately, will also welcome the return of Uhm Won-sang and Seol Young-woo. Uhm Won-sang can add explosive speed to a slow attacking lineup, while Seol Young-woo, who can play on both the left and right sides, can provide a boost to the flanks. Gwangju and Daegu also received a boost with the addition of Jung Ho-yeon and Hwang Jae-won. Gwangju will be looking to get back to full strength with Jung Ho-yeon, as well as Lee Hee-gyun and Timo, who will be returning from injury.
Pohang, on the other hand, is riddled with injuries. At a time when they need to accelerate their chase for the lead, they have lost key resources Wandelsson and Oberdan. Oberdan collapsed in the last match against Suwon and had to be substituted out. Upon further examination, he was diagnosed with a torn medial ligament in his left knee. He is expected to be out for six to eight weeks, effectively ruling him out for the season. Oberdan has been a key part of Pohang’s midfield this season, playing every minute of every game. With Gwangju’s chase for third place on the line, Kim Ki-dong’s worries are bound to grow.