Daegu:For the second time in three seasons, the Samsung Lions are headed to the Korean Series after defeating the Kia Tigers 6-1 in Game 5 of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason. The decisive match took place at Daegu Samsung Lions Park, located approximately 230 kilometers southeast of Seoul.

According to Yonhap News Agency, leadoff man Kim Ji-chan played a pivotal role with three hits and three RBIs, supporting starter Ariel Jurado. Jurado delivered an impressive performance, pitching seven strong innings to secure his second win of the series. He had previously thrown 6 2/3 innings of two-run ball in his Game 2 victory and was subsequently voted the series MVP.

With a sellout crowd of 23,550 fans, the Lions clinched the best-of-five series in five games, earning their place in the Korean Series. They are set to face the regular-season champions, KT Wiz, in the championship battle. The best-of-seven series will commence at 630 p.m. on Tuesday at KT Wiz Park in Suwon, situated about 30 kilometers south of Seoul.

The KT Wiz, who secured a bye to the Korean Series, have not played since their regular-season finale on October 12. They are aiming for their second championship, having previously won in 2021 and finishing as runners-up to the LG Twins in the 2023 Korean Series.

Meanwhile, the Lions are in pursuit of their ninth championship title and their first since 2014. They were the runners-up to the Tigers in the 2024 Korean Series.