This match features a showdown between 'FC Gucheokjangshin', currently leading Group B with '2 wins, 1 loss', and 'FC World Class', holding second place with '1 win, 0 losses'. Although World Class leads the head-to-head record with '5 wins, 2 losses', Gucheokjangshin's current top position makes it difficult to predict the outcome. With this being their final group stage match, Gucheokjangshin is desperate for a win to maintain their lead. Team captain Lee Hyun-yi expressed determination, stating, “This is our last group stage match, and we must win. We are more desperate.” The question remains whether the 'traditional powerhouse' Gucheokjangshin can continue their momentum and finish the preliminaries on a high note.
However, FC Gucheokjangshin faces a critical challenge ahead of this match. Their 'ace' player, Heo Kyung-hee, is unable to play due to a thigh injury sustained in the previous match against Actionista. To make matters worse, 'Kick Seol-hee' Kim Seol-hee is also dealing with an ankle injury, putting the team's strength at risk. Despite this, Kim Seol-hee is determined to play through the pain, embodying the team's motto, “The mind controls the body.” Meanwhile, Heo Kyung-hee is supporting the team from the sidelines, coaching 'rookie keeper' Jung Da-eun. All eyes are on whether Gucheokjangshin can unite as one team to overcome this crisis.
Coach Kim Young-kwang of FC Gucheokjangshin has implemented bold tactical changes to compensate for the loss of key players. With the absence of 'Haaland' Heo Kyung-hee, the team will adopt a 'defense first, counterattack later' strategy to manage player stamina. This approach temporarily sets aside their usual 'high pressing' tactic, allowing them to conserve energy and exploit the opponent's weaknesses when opportunities arise. Additionally, captain Lee Hyun-yi, 'Hyerauchi' Lee Hye-jung, and 'super rookie' Jung Yi-young, who scored a debut goal with her back in the previous match, are set to fill the void left by Heo Kyung-hee. The spotlight is on how Coach Kim Young-kwang's tactical adjustments will transform Gucheokjangshin.
A surprise guest appearance will also take place at the match. Sunyoul from the idol group 'UP10TION' and actor Lee Jin-hyuk, a former member of the same group, will be present. Lee Hyun-yi, who previously worked with Lee Jin-hyuk in a drama where he played her son, was reportedly delighted to see him. The special support from these guests raises anticipation for FC Gucheokjangshin's potential victory.
The intense battle for victory in the final group stage match for FC Gucheokjangshin will be featured in 'Kick a Goal', airing later than usual at 10:30 PM tonight (18th) due to a special holiday movie schedule.
Ryu Ye-ji, Ten Asia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr