Jeju SK (hereinafter Jeju SK) aims for consecutive victories against FC Seoul.
Jeju SK will clash with Seoul in the Hana Bank K League 1 2025 Round 17 away match, scheduled for 7 p.m. on May 31 (Saturday) at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.
Currently, Jeju SK holds a record of 4 wins, 4 draws, and 8 losses, totaling 16 points, placing them 10th in the league. They broke a winless streak of 6 games (2 draws and 4 losses) and a winless streak of 7 away games (3 draws and 4 losses), and have extended their undefeated streak to 3 games (1 win and 2 draws).
In particular, it was the long-awaited first away victory of the season, boosting confidence significantly.
The next opponent is Seoul. Recently, Seoul has recorded an undefeated streak of 5 games (2 wins and 3 draws), but they cannot afford to retreat. Jeju previously defeated Seoul 2-0 in the season opener and is determined to pressure their opponent again this time. To gain an advantage in the fierce competition for rankings, victory is not just a choice but a necessity. Jeju aims to close the gap with the mid-tier teams, including 7th-place Seoul (with 22 points), through an all-out effort in this match before the A-match break.
The key player is the critically impactful mid-fielder Italo (27) in away games. Jeju has been on an undefeated streak for 3 games (1 win and 2 draws) and has maintained 2 consecutive games without conceding, with Italo making significant contributions on both the offensive and defensive ends while starting in all matches. Notably, Italo has scored all 4 goals recorded since joining the K League in away games, taking on a game-changing role. In the recent match against Suwon FC, he scored his first goal of the season with a header off a cross from Lee Chang-min in the 34th minute.
Italo is a 190cm tall defensive mid-fielder. His physical presence allows him to excel in aerial duels and finishing, as well as quick transitions between defense and offense due to his box-to-box midfielder attributes. He is effective in man-to-man marking and diligently performs as a primary defense line. Recent criticisms regarding his blocking and mistakes in transitioning attacks after recovery have diminished under Coach Kim Hak-beom's advice to 'take your time and create passing opportunities calmly.'
Regaining his prominence as a nominee for the 2024 K League 1 Best Eleven mid-fielder, Italo noted, "There are many good mid-fielders in Jeju. I am still a player who has much to learn. Under the coach's guidance this season, I have focused on sharpening my strengths and softening my weaknesses. Therefore, I was able to offer more trust when opportunities arose. I scored 4 goals in the K League, all in away games, and I haven’t lost any. I will strive to showcase these strengths again in the upcoming away match."
[Photo] Provided by Jeju SK FC
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