TV
Ahn Jung-hwan Triumphs Over Lim Young-woong in a Thrilling Rematch on 'Kick a Goal 4'
On the October 19th episode of JTBC's popular sports variety show 'Kick a Goal 4' (directed by Seong Chi-kyung, written by Mo Eun-seol), Ahn Jung-hwan's revenge match against Lim Young-woong's 'Returns FC' was featured. Last year, Ahn's team suffered a crushing 4-0 defeat. However, in this episode, the 'Fantasy All-Stars,' a team composed of top players from the 'Fantasy League,' triumphed over 'Returns FC' with a 3-1 victory. The intense match captured viewers' attention, achieving a 3.6% viewership rating nationwide among paid households, securing the top spot among non-terrestrial channels in the same time slot.
Recalling the humiliation of last year's 4-0 loss, Ahn Jung-hwan revealed his true motivation for the rematch, saying, "I'm still paying off the credit card bill from the team dinner after that match. I thought Lim Young-woong would offer to pay half, but he didn't, which was quite disappointing." Lim Young-woong responded, "A match is a match," indicating another fierce competition was on the horizon.
Lim Young-woong's 'Returns FC,' known as the strongest team in the amateur soccer scene, faced off against Ahn Jung-hwan's 'Fantasy All-Stars,' a team assembled with ace players from the 'Fantasy League.' The lineup included legendary players like Shin Woo-jae and Lee Chan-hyung in midfield, and Guevara and Lee Shin-ki in attack, creating a dream team only seen in all-star matches. Even Lim Young-woong acknowledged, "They are stronger than last year."
During a fierce battle, Lee Shin-ki scored with a lucky 'abdominal shot' after a rebound from the goalkeeper, leaving 'Fantasy All-Stars' celebrating and 'Returns FC' visibly shaken.
Lim Young-woong, known for his scoring prowess in the 'KA League,' continuously pressured the 'Fantasy All-Stars' goal with quick penetration and perfect positioning. However, Choi Jong-woo, who had allowed easy counterattacks last year, successfully blocked him this time, keeping a clean sheet.
The first half ended with a 1-0 lead for 'Fantasy All-Stars.' During halftime, Lim Young-woong focused on the coaches' instructions and encouraged his teammates, reminding them to maintain a winning mentality.
As the second half began, an invigorated Lim Young-woong continued to press for goals. His shot, which bypassed goalkeeper Song Ha-bin, was dramatically blocked by Lee Dae-hoon, known as 'Hoon Gil-dong,' in front of the goal, surprising everyone. Despite multiple attempts, the equalizing goal remained elusive.
Amidst 'Returns FC's strong pressure, 'Fantasy All-Stars' midfield core Shin Woo-jae was substituted due to injury. However, Han Seung-woo, who was brought in, calmly converted Lee Shin-ki's cutback into a goal, extending the lead. Lim Young-woong responded with a non-stop pass that led to Jung Ji-hoon's goal, sparking a comeback.
With just one minute left in the match, Ryu Eun-kyu sealed the victory with a decisive goal, confirming 'Fantasy All-Stars' 3-1 win over 'Returns FC.' Lim Young-woong graciously acknowledged the defeat, saying, "We faced a very well-prepared team," while Ahn Jung-hwan, having avenged last year's humiliation, proposed a new match to determine the true winner, stating, "The total record is 1:1."
Lim Young-woong readily accepted, promising, "If given the chance, I'll come for the final match," heightening anticipation for the next showdown. The 'Fantasy All-Stars' impressive victory against the formidable 'Returns FC' has set the stage for more exciting battles in the 'Fantasy League.'
Meanwhile, JTBC's 'Kick a Goal 4' airs every Sunday at 7:10 PM.
Kim Se-ah, Ten Asia Reporter haesmik@tenasia.co.kr
