An epic qualification for the final: a boost of pride and responsibility
As coach of Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, I cannot hide the immense pride I feel in confirming that our team has secured its place in the grand final of the 2025 Korea Cup. This milestone not only represents the possibility of winning a prestigious title, but also a decisive opportunity to reaffirm our national dominance and aspire to continental prominence. Making it to this stage consolidates the collective work we have been cultivating since the first matches of the season and marks another firm step in our quest for the domestic double alongside the K League 1 title. We are ready to fight with the ambition and commitment that this institution demands.
The road to recognition
This journey through the Korea Cup demanded dedication from the outset. In the third round, we soundly defeated Ansan Greeners 3-0 after extra time, demonstrating our determination early on. Then, in the round of 16, we faced Daejeon Hana Citizen and, despite the difficulty of playing away from home, we pulled off a thrilling 3-2 victory. In the quarter-finals, we eliminated FC Seoul with a narrow 1-0 victory, showing character in a no less demanding match. Each step had its degree of difficulty, but the team responded with a winning mentality and cohesion, paving the way to the final.
The semi-final against Gangwon FC: heart and decisive goals
The semi-final against Gangwon FC was a real test. The first match in Jeonju ended 1-1, keeping the possibilities open. On 27 August, we travelled to Gangneung for the second leg, with the clear objective of sealing our place in the final. The match was tense, with every ball fiercely contested. Gangwon opened the scoring with a penalty converted by Dae-woo Kim (1-0). But the team did not give up: Tiago Orobó equalised with a penalty in extra time (1-1), courtesy of an assist from João Gamboa. Finally, in extra time, Patrick Twumasi, with an accurate shot after a cross from Jeon Jin-woo, scored the 2-1 that gave us the pass in the end. It was a dramatic outcome that reflected the fighting spirit and individual quality of our players.
Korea Cup: national pride and continental impact
The Korea Cup, or Korean FA Cup, is the country’s most prestigious knockout competition, organised by the KFA since 1996. In addition to its historical significance and national media coverage, winning this tournament can open international doors: if we win, we could qualify for the AFC Champions League Elite or Champions League Two, depending on our position in K League 1. This not only adds another trophy to the club’s honours list, but also boosts our presence in continental competitions, reinforcing Jeonbuk’s legacy as a giant of Asian football.
As manager, I want to say that the whole team is ready to give their best in the final on 6 December at the Seoul Stadium. We will fight with the same grit, unity and determination that brought us here. For now, we will continue to work day by day to return home laden with glory, with the trophy in our luggage — because that is our dream and our goal.
📷 Cover image credits: KOREA FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION. Jeonbuk’s Patrick Twumasi, centre-back, celebrates his goal in the Korea Cup semi-final.