Seoul — Pohang Steelers : Match Preview and Prediction for October 18,2025

Seoul’s Unique Pre-Match Circumstances

The capital club approaches this match under highly unique circumstances. Immediately after the final whistle, the team is set to pack their bags and fly to China for a crucial Asian Champions League fixture. For FC Seoul, expending all their energy in a game against Pohang Steelers before such an important away trip would be exceedingly burdensome. This factor fundamentally alters the pre-match dynamics and strategy.

K-League Standings and Prioritization

Furthermore, their current standing in the K-League allows the capital club to approach this game without undue pressure. FC Seoul has virtually secured their spot in the top six, meaning even a defeat would not be catastrophic, given their healthy goal difference. It’s logical to assume that the coaching staff will opt to rest key players and avoid pushing the team to its absolute limits, thereby mitigating the risk of injuries and fatigue before their international commitment.

Recent Results Reflect Pragmatic Approach

Moreover, the team’s recent league performances highlight a shift towards pragmatism. Their last two K-League matches both concluded in 1-1 draws. This pattern suggests that FC Seoul is not forcing the issue, but rather focusing on accumulating points with minimal expenditure of energy, a strategy that perfectly aligns with the expectation of a low-scoring match.

Pohang’s Persistent Attacking Issues

Pohang Steelers, on the other hand, are grappling with significant attacking problems. The team hasn’t scored more than one goal per game since their victory against Jeonbuk on August 24th, a truly damning statistic. Their offensive strategies have become overly simplistic and predictable, with the entire attacking play revolving heavily around a single forward, Lee Ho-jae.

Defensive Focus Amidst Striking Woes

When other offensive options are quiet, and one of their key attacking players, Kim In-sung, risks missing the match due to injury, expecting a goal-scoring spectacle is unrealistic. With such a toothless attack, the Steelers are left with only one viable strategy: to button up their defense completely. It is critically important for them to construct a ‘solid defensive wall’ and prevent their opponents from finding space.

Statistical Trends Towards Low-Scoring Games

Statistics fully corroborate this argument. According to the provided data, in Pohang’s last 5 consecutive away matches, there have never been more than two goals scored in total. Broadening the scope, in 9 out of the last 11 games involving the Steelers, the ‘Over 2.5 goals’ market has not been hit.