Hwaseong FC Defeats Leaders Busan to Climb to 5th... Unbeaten in Six Consecutive Matches

Jegal Jaemin Scores Debut Goal for Hwaseong
Petrov Secures 3-2 Victory with Decisive Winner
Unstoppable Six-Game Unbeaten Streak
Intense Race for Top Spots in the League Begins

Hwaseong FC achieved a thrilling 3-2 victory by a single goal against league leaders Busan I Park in the 12th round home match of the K League 2 2026 season, marking their unbeaten streak for six consecutive matches.

Hwaseong FC players are cheering together after scoring against Busan IPark. Provided by Hwaseong City

Hwaseong's relentless pressing stood out from the first half. In the 15th minute, Jegal Jaemin won the ball with strong pressure on the left flank and, following a seamless passing play with Kim Byungo, immediately attempted a right-footed shot. The shot deflected off the Busan defense and found the back of the net, resulting in an own goal by the opponent.

Riding the momentum, Hwaseong maintained their attacking tempo, and Jegal Jaemin—whose earlier effort had been recorded as an own goal—shone again. In the 21st minute, after receiving a pass from Kim Daehwan, Jegal Jaemin broke through with his trademark speed and fired a powerful right-footed mid-range shot, scoring his first goal for Hwaseong. Although Hwaseong conceded consecutive goals in the 30th and 36th minutes of the first half, ending the half at a 2-2 tie, their fighting spirit remained unshaken.

In the second half, Hwaseong actively utilized tactical adjustments and substitutions, engaging in an intense back-and-forth battle of counterattacks.

Finally, in the 28th minute of the second half, following a sharp corner kick from Plana and a scramble in front of the goal, substitute Petrov remained composed and slotted the loose ball in with his right foot, securing the precious winning goal. Hwaseong withstood Busan's all-out offensive until the final whistle, sealing a dramatic 3-2 victory.

With this win, Hwaseong extended their impressive run to six unbeaten matches (four wins and two draws), climbing to fifth place in the league standings (five wins, four draws, three losses, 19 points) and paving the way for a push into the upper ranks.

Manager Cha Duri stated in a post-match interview, "I am extremely proud and grateful to the players for maintaining focus until the end and securing three points against such a strong team at the top of the league. In particular, it was thanks to Jegal Jaemin's spectacular goal, Petrov's decisive winner, and the unity shown by every player on the field. We dedicate this victory to the citizens of Hwaseong and our fans, who came to the stadium and cheered passionately."

Meanwhile, Hwaseong FC is scheduled to play an away match against Chungbuk Cheongju at 7 p.m. on May 23 for the 13th round.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.