After four rounds of intense fighting in the group stage of the 2022 AFC East Asian Championship, all four South Korean teams failed to top the group, a situation that has caused concern and worry in the South Korean media. They commented that Korean teams seem to be facing an unprecedented challenge.
It is reported that the Korean teams competing in the AFC Champions League this year include Jeonbuk Hyundai, Ulsan Hyundai, Daegu FC and Jeonnam Dragons. However, after four rounds of matches, none of these teams were able to finish first in their respective groups.
Last season's K-League champions, Jeonbuk Hyundai drew 1-1 with Vietnam's Hoang Anh Gia Lai on the 25th, which saw them slip to second place in the group. Even more frustrating was the fact that they only had one effective shot on goal in the entire match, a result that was doubly disappointing.
As the K-League leaders, Ulsan Hyundai are undefeated in the league, but have finished third in this group stage, only slightly ahead of China's Guangzhou. However, Ulsan Hyundai's ranking seems to have lost its significance given the Chinese club's performance in the AFC Champions League. Despite their two wins over Guangzhou, Ulsan Hyundai remain in third place.
Daegu FC are currently second in Group F, with a win and a draw against Urawa, but the situation is just as bleak after a 0-3 defeat against the Lions earlier in the tournament.
