Jeju SK FC 2-1 Pohang Steelers: Late Drama at Jeju World Cup Stadium

The heat was on at the Jeju World Cup Stadium on 18 July 2026, and the home side delivered a performance full of grit and opportunism to snatch a 2-1 victory over title-chasing Pohang Steelers in K League 1 action. The result kept Jeju’s push for an upper-table finish alive while handing the Steelers a costly setback in their pursuit of the championship.

Match Overview

From the first whistle, Pohang dominated possession, using their trademark quick passing to pin Jeju deep. However, the hosts weathered the storm and struck first against the run of play in the 23rd minute. A swift counter-attack, started by a long ball out of defence, saw Brazilian striker Tiago Marques hold off his marker before slotting low into the far corner. Pohang responded with wave after wave of pressure but found Jeju goalkeeper Kim Dong-jun in inspired form.

The equaliser finally came in the 61st minute. Steelers’ midfielder Kim Jong-woo curled a free-kick over the wall and into the top corner, leaving Kim Dong-jun with no chance. Yet just as the visitors looked to push for a winner, Jeju struck a decisive blow in the 82nd minute. Substitute Lee Chang-min latched onto a loose ball inside the box after a corner was only partially cleared, and his deflected shot wrong-footed the Pohang keeper.

Tactical Story

Jeju SK FC set up in a compact 4-4-2, ceding possession but staying organised without the ball. Their game plan was simple: absorb pressure, then release Marques and winger Galego on the break. Pohang’s 3-4-3 struggled to break down the deep block, and their wide attackers often cut inside into crowded areas. The second-half introduction of target man Lee Ho-jae gave Pohang more aerial threat, but Jeju’s centre-backs won most duels.

Standout Players

• Tiago Marques (Jeju SK FC) – The Brazilian forward was a constant menace, scoring one goal and holding up play well under pressure.
• Kim Dong-jun (Jeju SK FC) – Made seven saves, including a brilliant fingertips stop from a Park Chan-yong header.
• Kim Jong-woo (Pohang Steelers) – Scored a magnificent free-kick and dictated tempo in midfield before fading late.

Season Impact

The win lifted Jeju SK FC to 6th place in the K League 1 standings, strengthening their claim for a spot in the Championship Round. For Pohang Steelers, the defeat saw them drop to 3rd, now four points behind leaders Ulsan Hyundai with a game in hand. With the title race tightening, such dropped points could prove decisive in May.