Preview: Incheon United v Gwangju FC

Sunday's solo Relegation Zone game features an important 6-pointer between Incheon United  and Gwangju FC. Gwangju's latest upturn in form could be enough to worry the Durumi who, despite only losing twice in their impressive win over FC Seoul in September, have only picked up points in three draws since then. Gwangju, however, make the trip to Sungui Arena on the back of five games unbeaten and two straight victories.

(image via IUFC Press)

Last Time Out

Incheon United recovered slightly last weekend following their 5-0 hammering by Pohang Steelers, by holding Daegu 0-0. They once again finished the game with ten men as Ha Chang-Rae saw a late red card.

Gwangju continued their fine recent form beating Sangju Sangmu 1-0. Song Seung-Min scored the only goal of the game. Prior to this they beat Jeonnam Dragons 4-2 on the road.

Previous Meetings 

September 10th: Incheon United 0-0 Gwangju

Last month Incheon and Gwangju played out a dull 0-0 draw. There wasn't much to say about this game apart from neither side played particularly well.

During 2017 season all three of the previous games between Incheon and Gwangju have been close; two ending 0-0 and Incheon edging the another 1-0, Kim Yong-Hwan with the only goal.

Over the years these sides have have played each other 18 times in the K League, with the record favoring Incheon. More than half have finished all-square.

Incheon United Wins: 5
Gwangju Wins: 3
Draws: 10

Who To Watch

There are a few standout players for both sides, players who need to step up help their sides survive relegation.

Incheon United

Thirty-three-year defender old Lee Yun-Pyo have a game to forget last weekend but over the season he’s been very important at the back. He has 196 games for Incheon over seven seasons, which shows his loyalty and ability to adapt to new managers and teammates.

The current top goalscorer, Song Si-Woo, has developed a super-sub reputation this season. He’s made 30 appearances but only started 12 times.

Gwangju FC

Brazilian forward Wanderson has 6 goals in his last 6 games. He is a key reason why Gwangju haven't already been relegated. However he can be inconsistent.

Midfielder Song Seung-Min has played in every game this season and played every game last season as well. He's a rock in the middle of midfield.

Finally a shout out to Niall McGinn, he has found his place in the Gwangju setup since joining in the summer. But fingers crossed the Northern Irish International doesn't give up on the K League.

Prediction

Incheon maybe weak going forward, but they have strong at the back. They've only conceded once in their last five home games. However Gwangju have looked much better in recent weeks picking up back-to-back victories and keeping their faint K League Classic survival hopes alive. I'm siding with a goalless draw partly based on the facts, but also based in fear. Incheon cannot afford to lose and draw might be enough moving forward.

Incheon United 0-0 Gwangju