Korean clubs start Champions League as underdogs
There was once a time when football fans in Korea could look ahead to the AFC Champions League Elite with the expectation that a K League team would lift the trophy — or at least that one or two Korean clubs would challenge deep into the competition. Still, the Land of the Morning Calm has 12 Asian wins with Saudi Arabia and Japan next with eight each. But few believe 12 will become 13. There is…
Korean clubs have begun their participation in the Champions League, approaching the tournament with the mindset that a K League team might not only reach the knockout stages but also claim the title. However, South Korea's standing in Asian football is not as robust as it once was, with only 12 Asian victories to Saudi Arabia's and Japan's eight. Despite the odds, there is optimism that Pohang Steelers, Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, or Daejeon Hana Citizen could be the surprise contenders.
The tournament kicks off on Tuesday, with the first leg of the matches set to take place. Pohang, a three-time champion, will face Beijing Guoan in China, while Jeonbuk, a two-time winner, will host Kashiwa Reysol from Japan. Daejeon will take on Kyoto Sanga, another Japanese side. The 32 clubs are grouped into two regional tables, with the top eight from each advancing to the round of 16. From there, the competition moves through the quarter-finals, semifinals, and culminates in the final.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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