Pohang Steelers secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over FC Seoul in a pulsating K League 1 encounter at the Pohang Steel Yard on Sunday, September 20, 2026. The win, sealed by a late goal, extends Pohang's unbeaten run and strengthens their push for a top-three finish, while FC Seoul are left to rue missed opportunities in a match they controlled for long spells.

Match Overview

From the first whistle, the game was played at a high tempo. FC Seoul, looking to impose their possession-based style, saw plenty of the ball in midfield, but it was Pohang who created the first clear chance. The deadlock was broken in the 23rd minute when Lee Seung-jae latched onto a through ball and coolly slotted past the Seoul goalkeeper. The visitors responded well, however, and equalised just before the hour mark through Park Ji-hoon, who finished off a swift counter-attack. With the game seemingly heading for a draw, Pohang struck the winner in the 82nd minute, Kim Do-hyun rising highest to head home a corner. The closing stages were tense, but the home side defended resolutely to claim all three points.

Key Moments

• 23' – Goal (Pohang): Lee Seung-jae opened the scoring with a composed finish after a defence-splitting pass from Kang Min-soo.
• 58' – Goal (FC Seoul): Park Ji-hoon equalised with a low drive after a quick break involving two one-touch passes.
• 82' – Goal (Pohang): Kim Do-hyun powered a header into the net from a corner, sending the home crowd into raptures.
• 90+3' – Save: Pohang goalkeeper Hwang In-jae produced a stunning reflex save to deny Seoul an equaliser in stoppage time.

Tactical Analysis

Pohang set up in a 4-4-2 formation, looking to press high and disrupt Seoul's build-up play. Their midfield duo of Kang Min-soo and Yoon Jae-ho worked tirelessly to win the ball back, often launching quick transitions. FC Seoul, on the other hand, lined up in a 4-2-3-1 and enjoyed 58% possession, but they struggled to break down a compact Pohang defence. The introduction of fresh legs on the wing for Pohang in the second half proved decisive, as it stretched Seoul's backline and created space for the winning goal. Seoul's manager will be disappointed with his team's inability to convert their dominance into clear-cut chances.

Standout Performers

• Lee Seung-jae (Pohang): Scored the opener and was a constant threat with his movement.
• Kim Do-hyun (Pohang): The match-winner, his aerial presence was a handful all evening.
• Park Ji-hoon (FC Seoul): Seoul's best player, his goal was expertly taken and he orchestrated many attacks.
• Hwang In-jae (Pohang): Made several crucial saves, including the late stop that preserved the win.

League Table Impact

With this victory, Pohang Steelers move up to third place in the K League 1 standings, level on points with second-placed Ulsan Hyundai but with a superior goal difference. FC Seoul remain in seventh, four points adrift of the top six and the championship round places. The result is a significant boost for Pohang's title aspirations, while Seoul's inconsistent form continues to frustrate their fans.

What's Next

Pohang will travel to face Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors next weekend, while FC Seoul host Suwon Samsung Bluewings. Both teams will be eager to build momentum as the season enters its crucial final stretch.