The team that held on to the end smiled. Pohang Steelers became the hero of the Donghaean derby with a final blow.
Pohang beat Ulsan HD 1-0 on Feb. 2 at Ulsan Munsu Football Stadium in a Hana Bank K League 1 2026 round 11 away match. A winning goal by Cho Sang-hyeok in added time of the second half decided the outcome.
With this victory, Pohang recorded 4 wins, 3 draws and 4 losses for 15 points and rose to fourth place. Having played one fewer game than third-place Jeonbuk Hyundai, they are level on points but sit just below on goal difference. Ulsan remained in second place with 17 points.
The matchup drew attention even before the game. It was the season's first Donghaean derby and a stage for a tactical battle between Ulsan coach Kim Hyun-seok and Pohang coach Park Tae-ha, who were rivals during their playing days.
The first half progressed in a tight flow. Both teams exchanged control and looked for chances, but decisive opportunities did not come easily. Defensive organization remained solid, repeatedly blocking attacking moves.
A similar flow continued into the second half. Ulsan had the first real chance. In the 31st minute of the second half, Yago received a long pass, trapped it with his right foot and struck with his left, but the shot hit the post and he swallowed his disappointment.
As time passed, a draw atmosphere deepened. But the outcome was decided at the end of the match.
In the 50th minute of added time in the second half, Pohang did not miss their chance. Oh Jeong-won delivered a cross from the left flank, and Cho Sang-hyeok surged into the box and pushed it in with his right foot. It was a decisive moment born of instant concentration.
After conceding, Ulsan immediately launched a counterattack but ultimately failed to score the equalizer. The match ended as it was, and Pohang completed a dramatic victory.
Pohang, which maintained concentration to the end amid fierce exchanges, took the result. A single goal created in the intense tension unique to the Donghaean derby turned into three points.
[Photo] Provided by the federation.
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