Incheon United’s frontline and decisiveness woes continue.
Incheon United, led by head coach Cho Sung-hwan, lost 0-1 at home to Pohang Steelers in the 19th round of the Hana OneQ K League 1 2023 at the Incheon Football Stadium on May 25. With 20 points, Incheon remained in ninth place, but 10th-placed Suwon FC (19 points) picked up a point to close the gap.
This was the first game after the A-Match break in June. Incheon was looking for a much-needed three points. Incheon had been unbeaten in six matches with one win and five draws prior to the Pohang match, but they hadn’t been able to pick up a comfortable win. Incheon’s challenges lay in their front line and decisiveness.
“I wish the break had been longer…” said Cho to the media before the game, a statement that showed his concern. Incheon was playing a zero top due to the injury of frontline striker Chun Sung-hoon. Cho’s plan is to increase the frequency of attacks through Mpoku, who has excellent ball possession skills. However, Mpoku is not a professional striker, so his positioning and movement are not satisfactory.
Against Pohang, Incheon centered their attack around Mpoku, but it was not easy. Cho mobilized all of his available strikers, including Hernandez, Jerso and Kim Dae-jung. In the second half, they increased their ball possession and attacked constantly. They recorded 14 shots and seven on target, but were unable to find the back of the net. 안전놀이터
Incheon has scored 18 goals in 19 matches, less than a goal per game. In their last three games, they have scored just one goal. The team’s top scorer is Chun Sung-hoon with three goals. Mpoku, Gerso, Hernandez, and Kim have all scored just two goals. Only Cheon and Kim Dae-jung are legitimate strikers. Kim has yet to score this season. Hernandez and Gerso should be categorized as flankers, using their speed and explosiveness rather than playing up front.
While reinforcements in the summer transfer window are not out of the question, it won’t be easy. Chun hasn’t been fully fit since his injury. “I think our offense is lacking. It’s unfortunate that our decision-making is low compared to our chances.” Incheon will face Suwon Samsung in the quarterfinals of the Korea Football Association (FA) Cup on Nov. 28, followed by back-to-back matches against Gangwon FC on Nov. 2.