Jeju United vs Daegu

Jeju World Cup Stadium forms the backdrop for a bottom-half K League 1 showdown between Jeju United and Daegu. 

Jeju’s form has taken an upward trajectory since a 2-1 home loss to reigning champions Ulsan Hyundai in early March. They’ve since gone four consecutive league matches without losing, including back-to-back victories in the build-up to this meeting. Strong defensive performances have been the backbone of Jeju’s return to form, as they conceded an average of 0.5 goals per game during that successful sequence. However, there’s no room for complacency if they’re to reach the playoffs as they trail sixth-placed Seoul by six points, making this encounter a ‘must-win’ affair. Worryingly, they’ve won none of their last three home league outings (D1, L2), scoring just one goal in that period. Therefore, ending a four-game winless H2H streak against Daegu (D1, L3) could be easier said than done.

Daegu humbled this opponent 3-1 in May’s reverse fixture, but that’s one of their three wins in 17 league matches this season (D3, L11). Therefore, it’s unsurprising they sit at the bottom of the table with minimal chances of securing playoffs. An awful form has been the architect of Daegu’s freefall this term, with the visitors still searching for their first top-flight triumph on the road (D2, L6). Manager Park Chang-hyun must find defensive solidity to increase Daegu’s chances of fighting their way out of trouble after his side conceded two goals per game on their eight K League 1 road trips in 2025!