'Three goals against Bucheon this season motivates me to score more': Gyeongnam FC's Tiago Orobó

Gyeongnam FC striker Tiago Orobó is using the three goals he's scored against Bucheon FC 1995 already this season as motivation in the playoffs. The two teams meet for the fifth time in 2022 on Wednesday as the K League promotion playoffs get underway. K League United caught up with the Brazilian goal scorer to hear his thoughts ahead of Wednesday's clash.

Tiago Orobó scored 18 goals in K League 2 this year in what was his debut season in South Korea. Although the Brazilian wasn't able to finish the regular season as the division's top scorer, there are still more games to play.

That's because Gyeongnam were able to earn the final playoff spot on the final day of the season, sealing a 1-0 win over FC Anyang. The team's top scorer Tiago Orobó is confident of adding to his tally against Bucheon on Wednesday.

Interview

Q: Congratulations on reaching the playoffs, what are your thoughts on being able to seal it on the final day?

A: "Getting into the playoffs was our target from the beginning of the season and because we are able to do that, the manager, coaching staff and us players are really happy."

Q: How would you assess the team's chances of going all the way and winning promotion? 

A: That’s difficult to say. We’ll do our best and work hard to make sure that we get a good result. If we’ve rested well and prepared well then we’ll be able to put on a good performance."

Q: Bucheon FC 1995 is up next on Wednesday in the first playoff match, what are you expecting from this game?

A: "It's a very important game and one which will be very tough for us. But we were able to beat Bucheon away from home once already this season and so if we just keep that in mind, rest and prepare well then we can get the result."

Q: You have to win, a draw wouldn’t be enough. What do you think about that playoff rule?

A: "It’s definitely an advantage for Bucheon and it will be difficult for us but as long we don’t concede early, contain Bucheon and defend well, in the second half we will have chances to score so that rule will just encourage us to perform well, I think."

Q: Have you experienced playoffs before?

A: "There’s a cup competition in Brazil called Copa do Nordeste with important games like this. Unfortunately, my team lost on that occasion and so this time, with this playoff and the chance to face FC Anyang and then a K League 1 team, I’ll do all I can to help the team win."

Q: You've scored three against Bucheon this season. That must fill you with confidence heading into Wednesday's game?

A: "Yes, I think because I have scored three against Bucheon already this season, it’s a big driving force for me. I think if we can find that rhythm again, together with my teammates, I have the belief that I’ll be able to score."

Q: Finally, what message do you have for the Bucheon fans?

A: "I hope the supporters will trust and support us as much as we believe we can do it. Those things have been a big driving force for us out on the pitch, so I hope we come together, have a good game together and win together."

Where can I read more?

Gyeongnam FC take on Bucheon FC 1995 this Wednesday in the 2022 Hana 1Q K League playoff semifinal, the official match preview can be found on KLeague.com here.

Read also: Bucheon FC 1995 and Gyeongnam FC seek winning change in playoffs here