Suwon FC 3-2 Pyeongchang United FC: Late Drama Secures Cup Victory

K League 1 side Suwon Football Club survived a major scare against K3 League’s Pyeongchang United FC, winning 3-2 in a thrilling Korean Cup encounter on July 15, 2026. The home side were pushed to the limit by the underdogs, but a stoppage-time winner ensured Suwon’s progression to the next round.

First Half Frenzy

Suwon FC started brightly, dominating possession and creating early chances. Their pressure paid off in the 22nd minute when striker Lee Jong-ho latched onto a through ball and finished calmly past the Pyeongchang keeper. The home crowd expected a rout, but Pyeongchang had other ideas.

Against the run of play, Pyeongchang equalized in the 37th minute. A long ball over the top caught Suwon’s high line napping, and winger Park Sung-min ran through to slot home. The shock silenced the stadium. Barely five minutes later, Pyeongchang completed the turnaround: a free kick was whipped into the box, and defender Kim Jae-hwan rose highest to nod the ball into the net. Pyeongchang United led 2-1 at half-time.

Second Half Response

Suwon FC manager made tactical adjustments at the break, pushing full-backs higher and increasing the intensity. The equalizer came in the 64th minute through a well-worked move. Winger An Byong-jun cut inside from the right and curled a left-footed shot into the far corner. The momentum shifted firmly back to the home side.

Despite wave after wave of attacks, Pyeongchang’s defense held firm. The tie seemed destined for extra time until the 90+3rd minute. A corner kick was cleared only as far as Suwon substitute Kim Sang-woo, who struck a fierce volley from the edge of the box. The ball took a deflection off a defender and looped over the helpless goalkeeper, sparking wild celebrations.

Standout Players

• Lee Jong-ho (Suwon FC): Scored the opener and was a constant threat with his movement.
• Park Sung-min (Pyeongchang United): The winger’s pace and goal caused Suwon problems all evening.
• Kim Sang-woo (Suwon FC): The super-sub netted the dramatic winner to save his team from embarrassment.

Impact on the Cup Campaign

Suwon FC advance to the next round, but the performance will raise concerns about their defensive organization against lower-division opponents. For Pyeongchang United, this was a heroic display that will be long remembered. They came agonizingly close to one of the biggest shocks in the Korean Cup’s history. Suwon will need to improve if they harbor ambitions of lifting the trophy.