Key Matches in the Key Races: Alternative K League 1 Round 30 Preview

The 2025 K League 1 season is characterized by key races, with the title race largely decided and the automatic relegation spot firmly held by one team. The focus shifts to crucial matches in Round 30, offering an alternative preview of the weekend's action.

In the match between Pohang Steelers (4th) and Jeju SK (11th), Pohang returns to league play after an AFC Champions League Two debut, aiming to end a two-game winless streak. A draw in the East Coast Derby and Daejeon's loss have positioned Pohang level on points with third place and just one point behind second, meaning a win could propel them to second. Jeju SK, however, faces relegation concerns after two consecutive losses and a six-game winless run, trailing safety by four points. Historically, each team has won one fixture this season, with Pohang victorious in the last home game, though they will be without Yoo In-su due to suspension.

FC Seoul (7th) versus Gwangju FC (5th) sees Seoul needing to reassess their season goals after back-to-back losses left them outside the top six by one point and five points from the top four. They must regain form and hope for slip-ups from higher-placed teams. Gwangju, in contrast, is in strong form with three straight wins, posing a challenge for a struggling Seoul side. In head-to-head matches, Seoul secured a 3-1 away win in Round 18, but Gwangju won the last encounter in the capital with goals from Reis and Park Tae-joon.