Seoul Nears Final A Berth as Gangwon, Gwangju Battle for Last K League 1 Playoff spot
Seoul – FC Seoul is on the verge of securing a place in Final A of the ‘Hana Bank K League 1 2025’ playoffs. A 1-1 draw against Suwon FC on october 5th brought them to 45 points, and their goal difference (42 goals scored) provides a significant advantage over Gwangju FC (42 points, 34 goals scored). Unless Gwangju scores more than eight goals in their final match, seoul will advance to Final A – marking the second consecutive year they’ve positioned themselves for the championship round.
The competition for the final Final A spot has come down to Gangwon FC and Gwangju FC.Jeonbuk Hyundai (68 points), Gimcheon sangmu (55 points), Daejeon Hana Citizen (52 points), and Pohang Steelers (48 points) have already confirmed their participation in Final A.Daejeon’s qualification represents the first time the club has reached this stage in its history. Pohang secured their spot prior to the 32nd round with a loss to Gwangju.
Gangwon currently holds sixth place with 43 points,following a 1-1 draw with FC Anyang on October 5th. Kim Gun-hee scored for Gangwon in the 28th minute of the second half,but Kim Bo-kyung equalized for Anyang in the 41st minute. A win would have given Gangwon a three-point lead over Gwangju, but the draw leaves the outcome to be decided in the final round.
The decisive match will see Gangwon travel to face Daegu FC, while Gwangju will play an away game against Ulsan HD.The point difference between Gangwon and Gwangju is only one point, adding to the high stakes.A Gangwon win guarantees their place in Final A. A loss or draw for Gangwon complicates matters, perhaps allowing Gwangju to advance. In the event of a draw between Gangwon and Daegu, Gwangju must either draw or loose against ulsan. Even a draw for Gwangju would secure their place in Final A if Gangwon loses. Gwangju currently holds a goal difference advantage with 34 goals scored compared to Gangwon’s 30.
The final matches are scheduled for 2 p.m. on October 18th. Adding a unique dynamic to the competition, Gangwon coach Chung Kyung-ho and Gwangju coach Lee Jung-hyo are close friends and former P-level license training partners.
