“Is Ulsan really the K League champion?”

Ulsan, led by coach Kim Pan-gon, lost 0-1 in their first group stage match of Group F against Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa) at the Inter Miami Stadium in Orlando, Florida, at 8:05 a.m. (Korea time) on the 18th.

The K League champion Ulsan participated in the tournament with Korea's pride at stake. It was a rare opportunity to clash with strong teams from around the world.

While a loss is a loss, the content was truly disappointing. Ulsan was only ahead in effort and suffered a complete tactical defeat. Initially, the match was scheduled to kick off at 7 p.m. However, it was delayed for about an hour due to the risk of lightning before the first half began. It was an unexpected variable, but Ulsan could find no excuse for their poor performance.

The three-back card put forth by coach Kim Pan-gon did not work. Instead, players appeared confused by the different tactics. In terms of tactical maneuvers, Ulsan was outmatched.

In the 29th minute of the first half, Mamelodi scored the opening goal using a set piece. Jung Woo-young failed to intercept Mamelodi's corner kick. The ball rolled in front of the goal and was scored by Ikram Rayners. Fortunately, Rayners' handball foul was called, resulting in the goal being canceled.

Ulsan's issues repeated themselves. Mamelodi scored the opener in the 28th minute. During the corner kick opportunity, Rayners spotted the incoming ball near the goal and made a scoring attempt by changing its direction with a shot.

In the second half, Ulsan adjusted their tactics and took control. However, the players who had exerted effort in the first half were exhausted in the second. The spacing between offense and defense collapsed, and they failed to finish with a decisive goal. Ultimately, Ulsan lost without scoring.

The evaluations from overseas media observing the match were harsh. The Japanese football media 'Soccer Digest' described it as, "The match content of Ulsan, the absolute prince of Korea, was a mess. The wall of the world was too high. Ulsan suffered humiliation following the Asian Champions League."

Furthermore, the media noted, "Ulsan was eliminated early in the 23-24 season Asian Champions League elite with a record of 1 win and 6 losses, shocking Korean fans. Ulsan also lacked strength in the Club World Cup. The pride of the K League prince was wounded."

Classified as the weakest team in the tournament, Ulsan lost from the very first game, which was expected to be a likely victory. Ulsan must now worry about losing all remaining matches against Fluminense on the 22nd and Dortmund on the 26th.

[OSEN]