On July 23rd at 6:30 PM, Busan I’Park will host Gyeongnam FC in the 24th round of the K League 2.
This match marks the 50th “Nakdong River Derby” in K League history. Busan I’Park holds a disadvantage against Gyeongnam FC with a record of 18 wins, 9 draws, and 23 losses. In their first encounter this season, Gyeongnam suffered a 1-4 defeat at home to Busan.
The home team, Busan I’Park, secured their first win under their new coach in the last round against Jeonnam Dragons, who were undefeated in their last 11 matches. The most significant change for the team in recent times is the appointment of a new manager. Park Jin-seop handed over the reins to Jo Sung-hwan, who previously led Jeju United to a runner-up finish in the league and also guided Incheon United to their first-ever appearance in the AFC Champions League. He possesses his own philosophy, whether it’s deploying a three-back system or managing the team. According to Korean media, “the players’ eyes have changed” since Jo Sung-hwan took over, with the entire team anticipating a resurgence. Although the team currently sits in 7th place in the standings, they are just one point away from the 5th spot, the “passing line” for the promotion play-offs.
In terms of personnel, the team recently released the aging Lopez and Ahn Byeong-jun, and brought in Yuhei Sato and Kang Ji-hoon to bolster the midfield and wings. The return of long-term injured player Jo Woo-je is good news for the team’s defense.
It’s worth mentioning that Busan I’Park has shown a “home-field disadvantage” this season, but the team will be hoping to break this “home-field curse” by building on their recent two-game winning streak on the road.
The visiting team, Gyeongnam FC, has had a dismal season, mainly due to the significant decline in the quality of their foreign players. Therefore, the team has been actively acquiring new players during this summer transfer window, hoping to turn things around. Australian forward Lachlan Wales has quickly found his feet, and he has combined with striker Park Dong-jin to score goals in two consecutive matches. Highly anticipated new signing Salaiba has made his debut, and another new foreign player, Fonseca, is ready to take the field.
Unfortunately, youth national team player Lee Jun-jae is suspended and will definitely miss this match. Veteran Woo Joo-seong is expected to start.
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