Defending Champion Jeonbuk Fails to Reach Quarterfinals, Stunned by Third-Tier Dangjin

Last year's Korea Cup champion Jeonbuk became the victim of a major upset after being tripped up by third-tier Dangjin.

Losing in a penalty shootout, Jeonbuk failed to even advance to the quarterfinals, bruising its pride as the tournament's most successful team.

Jeonbuk conceded the opening goal to third-tier Dangjin in the 11th minute of the first half after repeatedly making awkward passing mistakes in its defensive third.

Though Italo leveled the score 9 minutes later, Jeonbuk conceded another soft goal due to a defensive blunder in the 5th minute of the second half.

Even after equalizing to 2:2 through Han Seok-jin, Jeonbuk failed to turn the match around and ultimately headed into a penalty shootout. The team tasted a shocking defeat when Kim Ha-jun, the third kicker, had his shot blocked by the opposing goalkeeper.

Pohang, which shares the record with Jeonbuk for the most tournament titles with six overall, conceded the first goal to fourth-tier Jinju. However, led by Jorge—who recorded two goals and an assist—Pohang secured a 3:1 comeback victory and advanced to the quarterfinals.

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