The highly anticipated pre-season fixture between K-League Xi and Newcastle United wrapped up at Suwon World Cup Stadium, and it was the Korean All-Stars who claimed an impressive 1-0 win.
Final Score
- K-League Xi 1-0 Newcastle United
- Goal: Kim Jin-gyu (36’ minute)
Match Summary
The K-League All-Stars started quickly, showing greater sharpness as they are in the middle of their domestic season. Their relentless pressure paid off in the 36th minute when Kim Jin-gyu fired a superb effort into the top corner, giving the hosts a deserved lead. Newcastle, missing several key players (including Isak and Joelinton), looked a step behind throughout the first half. The English side did create opportunities in the second half, but couldn’t find a way past the inspired Jo Hyeon-woo in goal for the K-League side.
Key Moments
- 36’: Kim Jin-gyu scores with a precise strike from the left, beating Newcastle’s defense and goalkeeper.
- Second Half: Newcastle pressed for an equalizer, with Anthony Elanga and Anthony Gordon going close but unable to convert.
- Injury Concern: Late in the game, Joe Willock was stretchered off after an ankle injury, raising concerns ahead of the new Premier League season for Eddie Howe’s side.
Analysis
K-League Xi looked far more coordinated, capitalizing on their mid-season conditioning and chemistry. Dong-gyeong Lee was particularly influential in midfield, and Jo Hyeon-woo justified his status as one of the K-League’s best goalkeepers.
Newcastle experimented with their lineup but struggled with rhythm, perhaps due to squad rotation and lingering fatigue from travel and previous friendlies. Summer signing Anthony Elanga showed flashes of quality but couldn’t rescue the Magpies.
What Next?
- K-League Xi: The victory serves as a big confidence boost, showcasing the talent in the K-League to an international audience.
- Newcastle United: This marks their third consecutive loss of pre-season. The Magpies will hope to get back on track against Tottenham in Seoul on August 3, but injury concerns (especially to Joe Willock) will be a worry for manager Eddie Howe.
Fan & Media Reaction
Fans celebrated a memorable night for Korean football, with the atmosphere at Suwon World Cup Stadium lively and vocal throughout. Newcastle supporters, meanwhile, voiced concerns about pre-season form but acknowledged the quality of the K-League squad.