Profile: Jung Kyung-ho, Head Coach of Kangwon FC, Korea Professional Football League
[MyDaily = Seoul World Cup Stadium, Reporter Choi Byung-jin] In a bold move, Kangwon FC's Coach Jung Kyung-ho utilized a 'megaphone' to address issues post-match.
In a significant setback, Kangwon FC was defeated 2-4 by FC Seoul during the 'Hana Bank K League 1 2025' Round 34 at Seoul World Cup Stadium on the 26th.
Kangwon's loss was particularly unsettling given their initial dominance. They executed an aggressive forward press, stifling FC Seoul's play development. This strategic approach allowed them to take the lead, with Kim Gun-hee scoring initially and Mo Jae-hyun converting a penalty shortly after the second half began.
However, the game shifted dramatically after the 72nd minute when Kangwon conceded three quick goals over a span of seven minutes, marking a rapid decline. Lingard's consecutive goals, followed by Ryu Jae-moon's equalizer and Chun Sung-hoon's clinching score, sealed Seoul's victory.
Post-defeat, Kangwon's traveling supporters offered Coach Jung a megaphone, signaling discontent beyond just the latest loss to Seoul.
Kangwon's recent matches exhibit a stark contrast in their performance between halves. The first half reflects Coach Jung's tactical success, yet the team consistently falters in the latter stages of the game.
Kangwon FC, Korea Professional Football League
This pattern is evident in previous matches: a 1-0 lead against FC Anyang in Round 32 ended in a last-minute draw. A similar scenario unfolded against Daegu FC, where a 2-0 lead diminished to a 2-2 tie. In the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) face-off with Vissel Kobe, a commanding 3-0 first-half lead turned into a 3-3 draw, although Kangwon eventually triumphed in extra time with Kim Gun-hee's decisive goal. These recurring second-half collapses crescendoed in the demoralizing loss to Seoul.
Fans voiced their dissatisfaction, prompting Coach Jung to use a megaphone to issue a public apology. At the post-match press conference, Coach Jung acknowledged, "The fans likely share our disappointment and call for stronger second-half performances. I accept this responsibility and am committed to enhancing our game."
While addressing second-half vulnerabilities remains a priority, the megaphone incident has sparked debate. Despite last season's unexpected runner-up finish and current third-place standing in ACLE with two wins and one loss, some question whether the criticism is justified, given the club's resources.
Profile: Jung Kyung-ho, Head Coach of Kangwon FC, Korea Professional Football League
Seoul's victory highlighted the impact of their superior substitutes, a notable shortcoming for Kangwon this season, exacerbated by the absence of foreign players like Gabriel due to suspensions. This poses the question of whether relying on a domestic squad reflects well on the coach's capabilities. An official remarked, "Furthermore, considering it is Coach Jung's inaugural season, expectations should be tempered." While enhancing second-half strategies and substitution patterns is crucial, a balanced viewpoint is essential.
Coach Jung articulated his ongoing concerns, stating, "I've been tirelessly analyzing competitors," and stressed, "Our track record, including last year's runner-up status and reaching Final A, indicates progress. As a coach, I'm evolving as well." He affirmed, "Fans rightfully desire higher achievements and performances. I'm determined to rectify our second-half issues. Now is the time for collective effort," rallying for continued support.