Stalemate extends Seoul's 23-match winless curse (Ulsan vs FC Seoul analysis) | OneFootball

Ulsan and FC Seoul Share Spoils in Tactical Stalemate

Defensive Discipline Dominates as Title Contenders Cancel Each Other Out

A clash between two K League 1 heavyweights ended in stalemate as Ulsan Hyundai and FC Seoul played out a 0-0 draw in their Round 7 encounter. Despite both sides making attacking changes throughout the match, neither could find the breakthrough in a contest dominated by defensive organization.

The result keeps FC Seoul in third place on 11 points, maintaining their slender one-point advantage over fourth-placed Ulsan, who remain winless in their last four matches.

Tactical Chess Match

Ulsan manager Kim Pan-Gon opted for a 4-4-2 formation with veteran goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-Woo protected by a backline featuring experienced international Kim Young-Gwon. The midfield quartet was anchored by former Crystal Palace man Lee Chung-Yong alongside the returning Ko Seung-Beom, while Um Won-Sang and winter signing Heo Yool led the attack.

FC Seoul countered with their 4-2-3-1 system, featuring Jesse Lingard in an advanced midfield role behind striker Marko Dugandžić. The visitors' defense was marshaled by Yazan Alarab – nicknamed "Seoul's Wall" – who continued his impressive form this season.

The physical nature of the contest was established early when Ulsan's Kang Sang-Woo received a yellow card just five minutes in. FC Seoul's Willyan joined him in the referee's book in the 34th minute, with Ulsan's Lee Jin-Hyun also cautioned late in the second half.

Substitution Battle

Both managers turned to their benches in search of a winner. Ulsan introduced Gustav Ludwigson, Brazilian Erick Farias, and Venezuelan Matías Lacava – both January arrivals – while FC Seoul responded with experienced campaigners Ki Sung-Yueng and Moon Seon-Min.

Despite the fresh legs and attacking intent, neither side could break down their opponent's resolute defense, with Jo Hyeon-Woo and Kang Hyeon-mu both securing clean sheets.

Historical Context

The draw extends FC Seoul's winless run against Ulsan to 23 matches dating back to 2018 – a remarkable streak of dominance for the three-time defending champions. Ulsan has historically held the upper hand in this fixture with 70 wins to Seoul's 51 in their 180 previous encounters.

For FC Seoul, the point continues their impressive five-match unbeaten run under Kim Gi-Dong, though they'll be disappointed not to have ended their Ulsan hoodoo. The visitors entered the match with momentum following their thrilling 3-2 victory over Daegu FC last time out.

Efficiency Issues Persist

Both sides have struggled with converting chances this season despite creating numerous opportunities. Ulsan leads the league with 102 shots across seven matches but has managed just eight goals, while Seoul has scored six times in six outings.

This inefficiency was again evident as both attacks failed to capitalize on promising positions, with the final ball or finish lacking the necessary quality to break the deadlock.