Jung Kyung-ho, the coach of Kangwon FC in the Korean Professional Football League, is at the center of attention.
[MyDaily = Seoul World Cup Stadium, Reporter Choi Byung-jin] During a recent match, Coach Jung Kyung-ho of Kangwon FC was handed a megaphone by the fans.
On the 26th, Kangwon FC experienced a significant setback by losing 2-4 to FC Seoul during the 'Hana Bank K League 1 2025' round 34 match, which took place at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.
This defeat was unexpected for Kangwon FC. Initially, the team applied intense pressure from the front, which hindered Seoul's ability to execute their plays. Kangwon managed to control the game by employing a cohesive strategic buildup. Consequently, Kim Gun-hee scored in the first half, followed by Mo Jae-hyun's successful penalty kick early in the second half.
Nevertheless, from the 27th minute of the second half onward, Kangwon conceded three goals in a mere span of seven minutes, which led to their downfall. Lingard scored twice, Ryu Jae-moon netted a comeback goal, and Chun Sung-hoon clinched the win with a decisive goal in the closing moments.
In response to the loss, Kangwon's traveling fans presented a megaphone to Coach Jung. However, this gesture was not solely a reaction to the defeat against Seoul.
It has become apparent that Kangwon's performance fluctuates noticeably between halves. During the first half, Coach Jung's tactical approach functions well, effectively challenging opponents. Yet, in the second half, the team tends to unravel.
Kangwon FC/Korea Professional Football League
In earlier matches, such as the one against FC Anyang (Round 32), Kangwon led 1-0 but allowed an equalizer just before the game ended. Similarly, against Daegu FC, a 2-0 lead ended in a 2-2 draw. In the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) against Vissel Kobe, a 3-0 advantage in the first half resulted in a 3-3 draw by the end of the match. Although Kim Gun-hee's extra-time goal secured a win, the growing uncertainty culminated in the disappointing loss to Seoul.
Fans have expressed dissatisfaction with these outcomes, prompting Coach Jung to address them directly with a megaphone to apologize. During the post-match press conference, Coach Jung remarked, "I believe the fans share our feelings. They are likely more disappointed than we are. They've consistently urged us to exert more effort after halftime. I do not shy away from responsibility. Their concerns are valid, and I am committed to making improvements."
Improving second-half performances remains a key challenge, but opinions differ regarding the gesture of the megaphone being given to Coach Jung. Last season, Kangwon defied expectations by securing the runners-up position and reaching Final A for two consecutive years. Currently, they hold third place in the ACLE with six points from two victories and one defeat. A K League official questioned, "Given Kangwon's past achievements and the scale of the club, is the criticism warranted?"
Jung Kyung-ho, Coach of Kangwon FC in the Korean Professional Football League
A pivotal factor in Seoul's comeback was the quality of their substitute players. Kangwon, on the other hand, faced challenges this season due to a lack of impactful foreign players. Gabriel's suspension due to accumulated yellow cards meant there were no foreign players available on the bench for this match. This situation poses the question of whether it is praiseworthy for Kangwon to perform well with a team composed mainly of domestic players. An official previously mentioned, "Isn't this Coach Jung's first official season as head coach?" While Coach Jung needs to enhance second-half management and substitution strategies, a realistic view is essential.
Coach Jung also expressed his mixed emotions. "I am losing sleep trying to analyze our opponents," he stated, emphasizing, "Considering our past records, we were runners-up last year and reached Final A this year. Our progress is undeniable, both for me as a coach and for the team." He added, "I fully understand the fans' desire for greater achievements and improved performances. I am determined to address the second-half issues. Now is the moment for us to come together in support," he appealed.