Preview: Sangju Sangmu vs Daegu FC

Starting this weekend, the six teams at the bottom of the table are competing for survival in K League Classic in the Relegation Round. Recently promoted side Daegu FC (ranked 8th) are set to travel to Sangju this Saturday to take on a Sangju side just below them in the table. Daegu FC are hoping to take a few steps away from the relegation zone whilst the soldiers also want to survive in Classic.
(image via daegufc.co.kr)

Overview

(soccerway.com)

Last Time Out

Prior to Round 32, Sangju had a four game unbeaten streak with two wins and two draws to raise their hopes of survival, but a late goal from FC Seoul's Hwang Hyunsoo handed them a loss. For Sangju, winning was desperately needed to keep consistent momentum. What they lost in this defeat were key players, never mind the result. Defender Hong Chul and midfielder Yeo Reum were injured during the match and reportedly may be sidelined for the next round. Additionally, centerback Lim Chaemin will miss the next game due to suspension. These losses will be significant for them as they have relatively little depth on the squad after so many players were discharged for completing their military service.

Meanwhile, Daegu laughed happily with a big 4-1 victory over Jeonnam Dragons with a hat trick from Junior Negao and an additional goal from Jeon Hyunchul. During the match Junior was absolutely outstanding and overall Daegu outnumbered the Dragons in the midfield. Ahead of this game, Daegu had played astonishingly well against giant clubs like Ulsan and Jeonbuk, but failed to get three points. Finally, Daegu made up for some misfortune with a wonderful win and leapfrogged up to 8th, leaving other relegation contenders behind us.

(Photo via Facebook.com/daegufc2002)

Previous Meetings

Daegu have taken on Sangju three times this season and have never been defeated by the soldiers.

1st April: Sangju 1 – 1 Daegu
28th May: Daegu 2 – 0 Sangju
20th August: Daegu 2 – 2 Sangju

(soccerway.com)

In August, Daegu invited Sangju to Daegu Stadium. Honestly speaking, the game was a bit boring until Daegu scored. The hosts took the lead from a very lucky goal from Junior. He attempted shooting from a little far out and the Sangju's keeper was accidentally nutmegged. In the blink of eye, Evandro made it 2-0. The game looked easy for Daegu and it seemed that the hosts nearly had three points in their grasp. However, something unbelievable happened. During stoppage time, Sangju miraculously leveled the game with Joo Minkyu’s goal and Lim Chaemin's penalty within three minutes and it ended up 2-2.

Prediction

The morale in Daegu’s dressing room has been high and there will be no reason to lose it this week. Junior has been on fire these days and new players like Jeon Hyunchul, Hwang Soonmin have been revitalized as well. In addition, Cho Hyunwoo has been very solid and sharp in goal. Historically, Daegu have had very good results against Sangju. Ultimately it will be easy for Daegu to win unless they play carelessly.

Sangju Sangmu 0 – 2 Daegu FC