Paju Frontier FC Edge Past Gangneung Citizen in Five-Goal Cup Clash

Paju, July 15, 2026 — Paju Frontier FC secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Gangneung Citizen in their Korean Cup fourth-round tie at Paju Stadium. The match featured two penalties, a red card, and a dramatic late winner that lifted the home fans out of their seats.

Gangneung Citizen struck first in the 12th minute, exploiting a gap in Paju’s central defense. But Paju responded almost immediately, equalizing from a corner kick. The game remained cagey until early in the second half, when Paju was awarded a controversial penalty. The home side converted to take a 2-1 lead.

Red Card Drama

Gangneung refused to lie down. They won a penalty of their own in the 70th minute after a clumsy challenge in the box. The spot kick was calmly dispatched, making it 2-2. But just minutes later, Gangneung’s midfielder received a second yellow card for a dangerous tackle, reducing them to ten men for the final twenty minutes.

Paju immediately seized the numerical advantage. They pushed forward relentlessly, and in the 83rd minute, a low cross from the right was turned home by their substitute striker to make it 3-2. Gangneung had no time to respond, and Paju saw out the remaining minutes with relative ease.

Standout Players

• Paju’s No. 9: Scored the equalizer and the winner, showing poacher’s instinct.
• Gangneung’s Goalkeeper: Made several fine saves but couldn’t prevent the defeat.
• Referee: Had a busy evening with two penalty calls and a red card.

Paju Frontier FC moves into the quarterfinals, while Gangneung Citizen can be proud of their spirited display despite the loss.