FC Seoul 1-3 Ulsan HD FC | Korean K League 1 | July 26, 2026

Ulsan HD FC delivered a dominant away performance at the Seoul World Cup Stadium, cruising to a 3-1 victory over FC Seoul to cement their place at the top of the K League 1 table. The result extended Ulsan's unbeaten run to nine matches and exposed Seoul's ongoing defensive frailties.

Match Overview

The visitors wasted little time imposing themselves. Ulsan's Brazilian striker Lucas Mendes opened the scoring in the 12th minute, heading home from a precise cross by Kim Min-jun. Seoul responded well and equalised through a stunning free-kick from captain Ki Sung-yueng just before the half-hour mark, giving the home fans brief hope.

Ulsan's class shone through in the second half. Lee Dong-jun restored the lead in the 52nd minute with a composed finish after a defensive mix-up, and substitute Joo Min-kyu sealed the win with a late third in the 84th minute, capitalising on a counter-attack.

Key Moments

• 12' – Lucas Mendes heads Ulsan into an early lead.
• 28' – Ki Sung-yueng's exquisite free-kick pulls Seoul level.
• 52' – Lee Dong-jun capitalises on a defensive error.
• 84' – Joo Min-kyu makes sure of the points on the break.

Tactical Story

Ulsan, under coach Kim Do-hoon, employed a fluid 4-2-3-1 that dominated midfield transitions. The away side pressed high and forced Seoul into hurried clearances, creating multiple second-phase attacks. Seoul's back four struggled to cope with the pace and movement of Ulsan's front line, particularly in wide areas. Manager Choi Yong-soo tried to adjust with a double substitution early in the second half, but Ulsan's control was too strong.

Standout Players

• Lucas Mendes (Ulsan HD FC) – A constant threat, his goal and overall hold-up play were pivotal.
• Ki Sung-yueng (FC Seoul) – The veteran midfielder's free-kick was a moment of quality, but he was overrun in midfield.

Table Impact

Ulsan HD FC strengthen their grip on the league lead, now five points clear of second-placed Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. FC Seoul drop to sixth, eight points adrift of the top three, and will need to tighten defensively as the season enters its decisive phase.

Attendance: 32,100 | Weather: 27°C, clear skies