Steel nerves required as midtable mediocrity meets (Pohang Steelers vs FC Seoul prediction) | OneFootball

Pohang Steelers vs FC Seoul: Midtable Clash as Both Sides Seek Redemption

FC Seoul travels to the historic Pohang Steelyard on Saturday as both teams look to bounce back from recent setbacks in the K League 1. The Round 10 fixture pits ninth-placed Pohang Steelers against a Seoul side sitting in sixth, with both teams desperate to find consistency as the season approaches its midpoint.

Recent Form

Pohang's inconsistency has been their defining characteristic this season, with their record of three wins, three draws, and three losses perfectly illustrating their up-and-down campaign. Their most recent outing saw them fall 2-0 away to Jeju United, ending a six-game unbeaten run that had shown promise.

Seoul's form has been marginally better, with three wins, four draws, and two losses placing them three spots higher in the table. However, Kim Gi-Dong's men are winless in their last two matches, most recently suffering a 2-1 home defeat to high-flying Gwangju FC despite a late Jesse Lingard goal.

Team News

FC Seoul's preparations have been complicated by Jesse Lingard's brief return to the UK for family matters, though the English midfielder is expected back in time for Saturday's clash. His availability will be crucial for Seoul, especially with midfield stalwarts Ki Sung-Yueng and Jeong Seung-Won both sidelined for 1-2 months with injuries.

Pohang manager Park Tae-Ha has dealt with significant squad turnover this season, which has contributed to their inconsistent results. Veterans Shin Kwang-Hoon and Baek Sung-Dong provide experience in a team still searching for its identity, while Brazilian Juninho Rocha has integrated well since his January arrival from Asan Mugunghwa.

Tactical Battle

Seoul's defensive reinforcements have been a bright spot this season. Kim Jin-Su, signed from Jeonbuk Motors, has strengthened the left side, while Yazan Alarab has earned the nickname "Seoul's Wall" for his commanding performances in central defense.

The visitors will likely rely on Lingard's creativity and Lucas Silva's threat in the final third, though their midfield absences could prove problematic against Pohang's experienced central unit of Oberdan Alionço and Baek Sung-Dong.

Pohang typically employ quick transitions and wing play at home, with Lee Ho-jae leading the line. Their recent 2-1 win over FC Anyang at the Steelyard demonstrated their ability to perform in front of their own fans, making this a potentially tricky fixture for Seoul.

Prediction

This match presents a fascinating contrast between Seoul's more settled squad and defensive solidity against Pohang's home advantage and desperation to climb the table. Seoul's midfield injuries could prove decisive, potentially neutralizing their usual control in the middle of the park.

Pohang's home form gives them a slight edge, but Seoul's resilience – evidenced by their four draws this season – suggests they won't be easily beaten. Expect a tight, competitive affair with both teams finding the net.

Predicted Score: Pohang Steelers 2-1 FC Seoul