Seoul: Pohang Steelers triumphed over their regional rivals Ulsan HD FC with a 3-1 victory to secure their second consecutive Korea Cup title at Seoul World Cup Stadium. The decisive match took place on Saturday, marking a significant achievement for Pohang in the national football tournament. According to Yonhap News Agency, the winning goal was delivered by former Ulsan player Kim In-sung, who scored in the 112th minute, leading Pohang to capture the 2024 Korea Cup crown. Kang Hyun-je solidified the victory with a stoppage-time goal just before the final whistle. This win allowed Pohang to claim their sixth Korea Cup title, surpassing Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and Suwon Samsung Bluewings for the most championships in the tournament's history. Kim In-sung, who played for Ulsan from 2016 to 2021, was honored as the MVP of the tournament. Expressing his emotions, Kim mentioned how scoring against his former team was an overwhelming experience, especially with the support of Pohang fans who traveled to Seoul. Hi s goal against Ulsan was not just a personal victory but a pivotal moment for the team in the highly anticipated final. Pohang's extra-time triumph thwarted Ulsan's ambitions of achieving a domestic double, having already secured their third consecutive K League 1 title earlier in the month. The match was tied at 1-1 after 90 minutes, but Kim's goal in the extra session ensured Pohang's victory. A crucial moment in the match came when Oberdan prevented the ball from going out of play and executed a backheel pass to Kim Jong-woo on the left wing, who then set up Kim In-sung for a soaring header past two defenders. Kim In-sung expressed gratitude towards Kim Jong-woo for the assist, promising to treat him to a nice meal. Ulsan had an opportunity to equalize shortly after Kim's goal, but Kim Min-jun's volley missed the target. Ultimately, Kang Hyun-je's solo counterattack sealed the match for Pohang. Earlier, Ulsan's Joo Min-kyu opened the scoring in the 38th minute, with Pohang's Jeong Jae-hee equalizing in the 69th minute. Jeong concluded the tournament as the top scorer with four goals. The final marked the first Korea Cup showdown between these clubs, both significant rivals in the "East Coast Derby" due to their geographical closeness. For Pohang's first-year head coach Park Tae-ha, this victory resonated deeply, as he previously won the inaugural Korea Cup in 1996 as a player with Pohang. Reflecting on the journey, Park praised his players for their resilience and effort amid challenges, highlighting the vital contributions of the team's veterans.
Pohang Steelers Clinch Second Consecutive Korea Cup Title.
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