Lee Dong-gook achieved his first-ever victory against An Jung-hwan, breaking a long-standing jinx on 'Kick a Goal 4'. An Jung-hwan reflected on the painful defeat, taking responsibility and encouraging his players.
The 10th episode of JTBC's 'Kick a Goal 4', aired on the 8th, featured a fierce battle for the top spot in the first round between 'Lord of the Rings' An Jung-hwan and 'K-League Legend' Lee Dong-gook. The intense match captured viewers' attention, securing the top spot in its time slot among non-terrestrial channels.
In this episode, An Jung-hwan's 'FC Fantasista' faced off against Lee Dong-gook's 'Lion Hearts FC'. The focus was on whether An Jung-hwan, who had secured two consecutive wins, could achieve a third, or if Lee Dong-gook could finally break his jinx and claim victory.
Before the match, An Jung-hwan highlighted key players Jung Seung-hwan, Ryu Eun-kyu, Khan, and Seung-hoon, instructing them to undergo personal training. These players dedicated themselves to practice, even at music video shoots, lacrosse tournaments in the Czech Republic, and concerts in New Zealand and Japan. Meanwhile, Lee Dong-gook's team prepared a surprise birthday prank for him, vowing to secure a win.
As the game commenced, 'Lion Hearts FC' applied relentless pressure from the start, troubling 'FC Fantasista'. Despite their focus, 'FC Fantasista' showcased their prowess with a powerful shot from Oh Jae-hyun that threatened 'Lion Hearts FC'. However, goalkeeper Song Ha-bin's incredible saves kept them in the game.
Just before halftime, a collision occurred as Lee Yong-woo attempted a header from Chun Joo-an's cross, leading to a penalty kick due to Oh Jae-hyun's high foot. Chun Joo-an stepped up but was denied by Bang Tae-hoon, ending the first half in a 0-0 draw.
Both teams' coaches, former strikers, urged their players to be more aggressive in the second half. In a tense, scoreless battle, Lee Yong-woo's side pass was crossed by Nam Woo-hyun and finished with a header by Choi Jong-woo, shaking the net.
Choi Jong-woo celebrated with An Jung-hwan's signature ring ceremony, leaving a strong impression on the coach who had previously used him primarily as a defender. Nam Woo-hyun, who spent much of the last season on the bench, also contributed to the attack, showcasing his growth.
The match concluded with 'Lion Hearts FC' winning 1-0, securing the top spot in the first round with 2 wins, 1 draw, and 7 points. Lee Dong-gook celebrated his first victory against An Jung-hwan, breaking the jinx.
In the 'FC Fantasista' locker room, silence prevailed after their first-round defeat. An Jung-hwan took responsibility, saying, "It's all my fault. I made the wrong judgments and decisions," and encouraged his players, "Winning every game would be boring. Losing fuels the desire to win. The league is just beginning."
In contrast, 'Lion Hearts FC' celebrated in their locker room, marking Lee Dong-gook's birthday and their first-round victory. Nam Woo-hyun expressed his joy, saying, "This is more thrilling than winning a music show." During a celebratory dinner, they vowed to maintain their top position in the second round.
The episode's preview teased the addition of four ace players and the first match of the second round between Kim Nam-il's 'Ssak3 UTD' and Lee Dong-gook's 'Lion Hearts FC'. 'Kick a Goal 4' airs every Sunday at 7:10 PM.
Reporter: Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr