Pohang Steelers showed that football is not just about reputation. Pohang dominated Shanghai Haigang with a 3-0 victory in the AFC Champions League Elite 2nd leg at Pohang Steel Yard on October 1, 2024. Pohang played in a 4-4-2 formation with An Jae-jun and Jorge leading the attack, Kim Jong-woo and Ove, forming the midfield, and Lee Tae-seok and Hong Yoon-sang on the left and right wings respectively. Jeon Min-gwang and Lee Kyu-baek paired up as central defenders, while Wandel Son and Shin Kwang-hoon started as left and right full-backs. The goal was guarded by Yoon Pyeong-guk. Pohang took the lead in the 1st minute of the first half with Kim Jong-woo’s long-range shot. The game continued with intense midfield battles after Kim Jong-woo’s goal. In the 27th minute, Gustavo seized an opportunity inside Pohang’s penalty area, but Yoon Pyeong-guk saved Pohang with a double save from Gustavo and Popp’s shots. Pohang then launched a counterattack, but in the 29th minute, Shanghai’s goalkeeper blocked Lee Tae-seok’s shot. Gustavo had another chance in the 38th minute, but Yoon Pyeong-guk saved his shot. In the 43rd minute, Oscar’s overhead kick attempt was also blocked by Yoon Pyeong-guk. Shanghai’s attacks continued with Gustavo’s header from a corner kick in the 44th minute and Popp’s shot that narrowly missed the target. Pohang’s coach, Park Tae-ha, made crucial substitutions at the start of the second half, bringing in Jung Jae-hee and Han Chan-hee. Jung Jae-hee then scored in the 51st minute after a low cross from the right by Jung Jae-hee. Pohang’s momentum increased, leading to another goal in the 64th minute from Hong Yoon-sang. Han Chan-hee then sealed the victory with a goal in the 70th minute. Shanghai’s defense crumbled, and the match became heated with a red card shown to Mateus Jose in the 75th minute. Pohang continued to dominate, not letting go of the lead.
Pohang’s living legend Wanderson shines in 3-0 victory over Shanghai.
