SEOUL – In a crucial match that marked the beginning of the AFC Champions League’s round of 16, Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors emerged victorious against Pohang Steelers with a 2-0 win on Wednesday. The game, which saw intense competition between the two South Korean league rivals, was hosted at the Jeonju World Cup Stadium in Jeonju, situated approximately 200 kilometers south of Seoul.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the match commenced with high energy, leading to Hernandes scoring the first goal at the 17th minute, providing Jeonbuk with an early lead. The team’s advantage was further solidified in the second half, with Ahn Hyun-beom delivering a diving header in the 64th minute, thus rounding off the scoring for the evening. The match was notable for its strategic plays and the effective use of team strengths, particularly highlighted by Jeonbuk’s ability to maintain possession and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The return leg of the series is scheduled for next Tuesday at the Pohang Steel Yard in Pohang, which lies 260 kilometers southeast of the capital. This upcoming match promises to be a decisive one, as the aggregate score will determine which team advances further in the competition. Notably, the away goals rule will not be applicable in this series, setting the stage for a potentially intense showdown that could extend into extra time or penalties if the teams are tied in total goals after the concluding match.
Jeonbuk’s victory was underscored by notable performances, including that of Hernandes, a recent addition to the team from Incheon United. His goal, a volley from a headed pass by Lee Dong-jun, came shortly after a near miss by defender Hong Jeong-ho. Additionally, Kim Tae-hwan, a key player acquired during the winter signing period, made a significant impact with his precise cross that led to Ahn’s goal.
Despite Pohang’s dominance in ball possession and passing accuracy, they were unable to convert their control of the game into goals. This match sets the stage for an intriguing next phase of the competition, as Jeonbuk and Pohang are among the three South Korean clubs in the knockout stage, alongside Ulsan HD FC.
The outcome of the Jeonbuk-Pohang series will lead to a quarterfinals match against the winner of the series between Ulsan HD FC and Ventforet Kofu of Japan, further intensifying the competition in the AFC Champions League.