Daejeon Hana Citizen, currently leading the standings, will face Ulsan HD.

Daejeon will compete against Ulsan HD in the Hana Bank K League 1 2025 Round 18 at Ulsan Munsoo Football Stadium on April 1. Daejeon has accumulated 13 points (4 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss) to take the top spot. This match has been rescheduled to April 1 due to the impact of Ulsan's participation in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Daejeon rose to the top with three consecutive wins in March. After taking the lead, Daejeon drew 1-1 against Gwangju FC in their first match following the international break. Although they conceded the first goal, they managed to equalize with a goal from Kim In-kyun. It was disappointing that they could not score a comeback goal despite dominating the second half.

Above all, the occurrence of injuries was painful. On that day, Masa complained of an injury and left the match, and Choi Geon-joo was also injured and substituted during the game. As news of the injuries spread, the importance of the players who were prepared on the bench grew. Managing stamina is critical as they play on Tuesday after the Saturday game.

Coach Hwang Seon-hong noted in the post-match press conference, “I wanted to put in Joo Min-kyu to take control of the game as we were losing height and central battles. I pointed out that we had many back passes when transitioning to offense and that we should improve in the second half. Overall, the second half was good.”

Regarding the injury situation, he said, "Choi Geon-joo and Masa are both in bad condition. There are significant concerns. Other players need to step up during times like this. It will be a good opportunity for them."

Daejeon, carrying the burden of injured players, will face Ulsan. Daejeon has one loss this season, which was against Ulsan in the second round. Ulsan, who defeated Daejeon, has continued their momentum by winning against Jeonbuk and Jeju SK, but they drew with Suwon FC and lost to Pohang Steelers, dropping to 4th place. Daejeon aims to take down Ulsan and regain the winning momentum.

The key player is Joo Min-kyu. Joo Min-kyu is the top scorer with 5 goals. Before the match against Gwangju, he had 5 goals in 5 matches, but he did not score against Ulsan. After being called up for an international match and returning to play, Joo Min-kyu started on the bench against Gwangju but was subbed in late in the first half and fought hard, though he did not score. He will meet his former team, Ulsan, once again.

Daejeon needs Joo Min-kyu to win. Although wingers like Choi Geon-joo and Kim In-kyun are scoring, the most crucial player for Daejeon is Joo Min-kyu. If Joo Min-kyu performs well and defeats Ulsan, it could positively impact the home game against Jeonbuk scheduled for this weekend. Daejeon hopes once again for Joo Min-kyu's scoring touch.

[Photo] Provided by Daejeon.

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