Jeju SK FC 2–1 Pohang Steelers | Korean K League 1 | July 18, 2026 | 18:30 KST

Jeju SK FC secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Pohang Steelers in a pulsating K League 1 encounter at Jeju World Cup Stadium on Saturday evening. The hosts bounced back from an early deficit to claim all three points, thanks to a determined second‑half display that saw them overturn a one‑goal halftime scoreline.

Match Overview

Pohang Steelers struck first in the 23rd minute when a sweeping counter‑attack ended with a clinical finish from their leading marksman. Jeju responded with growing intensity after the interval, equalising through a well‑worked set‑piece routine in the 58th minute. The decisive moment arrived with 15 minutes remaining as a surging run from midfield carved open the visitors' defence, allowing a cool left‑footed strike to nestle inside the far post.

Key Moments

• 23' – Pohang take the lead: A fast break down the right flank sees the cross met first‑time at the back post.
• 58' – Jeju equalise: A short corner is worked to the edge of the area, and a low shot takes a deflection past the keeper.
• 75' – Winning goal: The home side's central midfielder drives forward, exchanges a one‑two, and slots home.
• 90+4' – Pohang push for an equaliser but Jeju's defence holds firm under late pressure.

Tactical Story

Jeju manager altered his shape at the break, introducing an extra midfielder to wrest control of the centre. The change paid dividends as Pohang, initially comfortable sitting deep, began to retreat deeper and deeper. The hosts' full‑backs pushed higher, turning the game into a series of crosses and cut‑backs that eventually overwhelmed the Steelers' backline.

Standout Players

Jeju's midfield general was instrumental in both goals and covered every blade of grass, while Pohang's goalkeeper made several important saves to keep his side in the contest. The visitors' left‑back also impressed with overlapping runs, yet his team lacked the final pass in the final third.

Table Impact

The victory lifts Jeju SK FC into the top half of the K League 1 standings, while Pohang Steelers remain in mid‑table but will be frustrated at dropping points after a promising first‑half performance. The result also extends Jeju's unbeaten run at home to four matches, a positive sign as the season enters its decisive phase.