"Our performance today was not satisfactory. What we prepared for and how we played were worlds apart. After going 2-0 up, our players lost focus,” said Lee. “We switched to a defensive mentality.

“Our style is to build from the back, and I kept urging the players to concentrate more instead of just pumping long balls forward. It's essential to maintain the Gwangju way of playing."

“We were surprised by JDT's performance and how they created chances, especially considering the weather, but we managed to finish well.”

JDT head coach Hector Bidoglio acknowledged the difficulties his team faced but was pleased with the overall performance.

"It was a difficult match, but I am pleased with my players' performance. Our opponents were able to launch attacks easily, but we didn’t lose our composure,” said Bidoglio. 

“Both teams were evenly matched in the first half. They scored early but then didn’t pose much of a threat for the rest of the game.

“In the second half, we focused on controlling the play and attacking from the flanks. It was still a challenging match, but I’m happy with how my players performed, and we must continue this effort moving forward."