Gangwon FC 1-0 Kuching City FC: Kim Dae-won Strikes to Seal Narrow Win

Gangwon FC secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kuching City FC in the AFC Champions League 2 group stage on 29 October 2026, with Kim Dae-won’s second-half goal proving the difference at Chuncheon Songam Stadium. The Korean side dominated possession for long spells but had to be patient against a disciplined and compact Kuching City defence.

The result keeps Gangwon’s knockout-stage ambitions firmly on track, while Kuching City leave Chuncheon with credit for their organisation and resilience but without the points their defensive effort arguably deserved.

Match overview

Gangwon started brightly and pinned Kuching City deep inside their own half during the opening 20 minutes. Lee Sang-heon tested the goalkeeper from distance, and a series of corners caused moments of panic in the Malaysian side’s penalty area. Kuching City, however, defended with discipline and relied on quick counter-attacks through their wide players.

The decisive moment arrived in the 63rd minute. Kim Dae-won collected the ball on the right side of the box, cut inside onto his left foot and curled a precise effort into the far corner. It was a goal of real quality and the reward for Gangwon’s sustained pressure. Kuching City pushed forward late in search of an equaliser, but Gangwon’s back line held firm through five minutes of stoppage time.

Key moments

• 14th minute – Gangwon threaten: Lee Sang-heon’s low drive from the edge of the box forces a smart save.
• 31st minute – Kuching City counter: A rapid break ends with a shot from the right channel that flashes just wide.
• 63rd minute – The breakthrough: Kim Dae-won cuts inside and curls a left-footed finish into the far corner.
• 79th minute – Kuching City respond: A header from a free-kick is comfortably gathered by the Gangwon goalkeeper.
• 90+3 minutes – Late chance: Kuching City win a corner, but Gangwon clear and hold on for the three points.

Tactical story

Gangwon’s 4-3-3 was designed to stretch Kuching City horizontally, with the full-backs pushing high and the wingers holding width. The hosts circulated the ball well but initially struggled to break through a compact 5-4-1 block. Kuching City conceded territory but protected the central corridor, forcing Gangwon into crosses that were often well defended.

The game changed when Gangwon began to attack the half-spaces more aggressively after half-time. Kim Dae-won drifted infield more frequently, and that movement created the space for his match-winning strike. Kuching City’s counter-attacking plan remained disciplined, but they lacked the final pass to genuinely trouble the Gangwon goalkeeper until the closing stages.

Standout players

Kim Dae-won was the clear match-winner, combining intelligent movement with a decisive finish. Gangwon’s central defenders were also excellent in managing Kuching City’s rare counter-attacks, while Lee Sang-heon provided energy and creativity in midfield. For Kuching City, the goalkeeper produced several important saves, and the back three stood strong under long periods of pressure.

What the result means

Gangwon move onto seven points from three Group G matches and strengthen their position at the top of the standings. The narrow win keeps their unbeaten group-stage run intact and gives them breathing room ahead of a demanding away trip. Kuching City remain without a win but can take heart from a performance that shows they can compete defensively against strong opposition. They will need to find more attacking threat in their remaining fixtures to keep their qualification hopes alive.