Jung Kyung-ho, Head Coach of Kangwon FC, Korea Professional Football League
[MyDaily, Seoul World Cup Stadium, Journalist Choi Byung-jin] Coach Jung Kyung-ho of Kangwon FC was seen utilizing a megaphone to communicate with fans.
Kangwon FC experienced a significant 2-4 loss to FC Seoul during the 'Hana Bank K League 1 2025' round 34 match, which took place at Seoul World Cup Stadium on the 26th.
This defeat, characterized by a comeback from FC Seoul, was unexpected for Kangwon. In the initial half, Kangwon executed aggressive forward pressing tactics, which hindered Seoul's offensive strategies. They effectively maintained control through a coordinated build-up strategy. Consequently, Kim Gun-hee scored in the first half, and a penalty kick (PK) by Mo Jae-hyun increased their lead at the start of the second half.
However, Kangwon's defensive structure faltered from the 27th minute of the second half, conceding three goals in a span of seven minutes. Lingard scored multiple goals, Ryu Jae-moon added a comeback goal, and Chun Sung-hoon finalized Seoul's win with a late-game goal.
Following the match, away fans provided Coach Jung with a megaphone, a gesture that was not solely in response to the loss against FC Seoul.
Kangwon's consistent pattern of contrasting first and second-half performances has been a point of discussion. Coach Jung's initial strategy is effective in dominating opposition, but the team is unable to maintain this intensity throughout the second half.
Kangwon FC, Korea Professional Football League
In the match against FC Anyang (Round 32), Kangwon, despite leading 1-0, conceded a late equalizer. Similarly, their 2-0 lead against Daegu FC was negated, resulting in a 2-2 draw. In the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) fixture versus Vissel Kobe, a 3-0 first-half lead was squandered, concluding in a 3-3 draw. Although a victory was clinched with Kim Gun-hee's extra-time goal, the pattern of 'anxiety' in sustaining leads grew, culminating in the defeat to Seoul.
The frustration of Kangwon's supporters was palpable, prompting Coach Jung to address them via a megaphone in apology. During the post-match press conference, Coach Jung remarked, "I empathize with the supporters. Their disappointment likely exceeds ours. They have consistently urged us to intensify efforts in the latter half. I accept the responsibility and recognize the validity of their concerns. Improvement is imperative."
While enhancing second-half performance is evidently necessary, the action of presenting Coach Jung with a megaphone has sparked debate. Last season, Kangwon's surprising second-place finish and their consistent presence in Final A over two consecutive years highlight their competitive edge. Currently standing third in the ACLE with six points from two victories and one defeat, a K League insider questioned, "Given Kangwon's overall performance and club stature, are the criticisms justified?"
Jung Kyung-ho, Head Coach of Kangwon FC, Korea Professional Football League
The pivotal factor enabling Seoul's comeback was the depth and skill of their substitute players. This season, Kangwon has faced challenges due to the lack of foreign players, a factor evident in this match. While Lingard emerged as a 'game changer' for Seoul, Kangwon's bench was devoid of foreign players, impacted by Gabriel's suspension due to accumulated yellow cards. This situation poses a question about the efficacy of relying predominantly on domestic players. An official previously mentioned, "Moreover, this is Coach Jung's inaugural season as head coach." While Coach Jung must address second-half strategies and substitution tactics, a balanced perspective is essential.
Coach Jung expressed his intricate emotions, stating, "I am significantly preoccupied with analyzing our opponents," and emphasized, "Reflecting on our past achievements, we have been runners-up and reached Final A this year. Our progress is indisputable, both for the team and myself as a coach." He further acknowledged, "I understand the aspiration for greater achievements and superior displays from our fans. I am committed to rectifying the issues in our second-half performances. This is a time for collective effort," he urged, appealing for continued support.