Ulsan HD win first friendly against MLS side Charlotte FC 5-2

Ulsan HD continue to work tirelessly as they prepare to make waves at the FIFA Club World Cup. On June 10 at 10:30 AM (local time), in their first match since arriving in the U.S., Ulsan defeated Major League Soccer (MLS) club Charlotte FC 5–2 in a behind-closed-doors training match on Pitch 1 of the Atrium Health Performance Park, Charlotte’s official training ground.

As it was a behind-closed-doors friendly game, the match consisted of three 30-minute thirds, totaling 90 minutes. While fans had anticipated several high-profile reunions for Lee Chung-yong, Charlotte’s upcoming league fixture against Philadelphia Union, combined with injury precautions and match readiness concerns, meant that matchups with former EPL teammates Tim Ream (Bolton) and Wilfried Zaha (Crystal Palace) did not materialize.

Against Charlotte, Lee Chung-yong, Erick Farias, and Eom Won-sang were among the Ulsan players on the scoresheet. Additionally, Polish ‘defensive wall’ Milosz Trojak, who joined Ulsan in this summer's transfer window, found the back of the net. Lee Jin-hyun also successfully added to Ulsan’s tally as he enjoyed a rare goal.

Standing at a height of 191cm, Trojak showcased his strengths in aerial duels and his physical presence. Also known for his outstanding ability with his feet, contributing to build-up play and transitional passes, he made his mark in this game with a powerful header from a set-piece.

Manager Kim Pan-gon used the game to assess the players' overall condition and performance while preparing for the group stage opener, which is less than a week away (Tuesday, 17th, 6:00 PM at Orlando's Inter&Co Stadium against Mamelodi Sundowns).

After successfully completing their first friendly game, the Ulsan squad took some rest and personal time before holding their first team dinner since arriving in the United States five days ago. All coaching staff and players attended the dinner held near the base camp hotel, strengthening team unity. Players sat around tables, sharing nutritious meals and time to converse with each other. After five days of a tight schedule including long-distance flights, immigration procedures, and local training, they were able to briefly recharge. The 11th will be a rest day, alongside supplementary individual training.

From the 12th, the official tournament preparation period begins. Therefore, the squad plans to focus on maintaining peak condition for match day and further maximizing team cohesion.

Additionally, a small booth has been set up on the first floor of the squad's base camp hotel to aid player recovery and stress relief. They have prepared pickleball, a sport that originated in the United States and crossed over to Korea, and ping pong tables that players frequently enjoy at Ulsan's clubhouse. These facilities are providing a great boost for team bonding, additional physical activity, and stress relief during non-training hours.

Via Ulsan HD press release