Gwangju, July 2, 2025, Ahead of the 2025 Korea Cup quarterfinals, Ulsan Hyundai FC manager Kim Pan-gon has introduced a key tactical shift by moving midfielder Gustav Rubik’sson into a striker role for the team’s matchup against Gwangju FC. The match, taking place at Gwangju World Cup Stadium, marks Ulsan’s return to domestic action following their recent run in the Club World Cup.
Coach Kim has selected a 3-5-2 formation, with Rubik’sson partnering Eric in the forward line. The midfield will be anchored by Lee Jin-hyun, Ko Seung-beom, and Boyanich, while wingbacks Cho Hyun-taek and Kang Sang-woo will provide width. At the back, Kim Young-kwon, Trojac, and Signature Hall form a three-man defense in front of goalkeeper Jo Hyun-woo.
Gwangju FC, by contrast, will line up in a 4-3-3 system. Gabriel, Asani, and Jung Ji-hoon lead the attack, supported by a midfield trio of Joo Se-jong, Hayes, and Choi Kyung-rok. Their defensive unit comprises Kim Han-gil, Min Sang-ki, Byun Jun-su, and Cho Sung-kwon, with Kim Kyung-min in goal.
The decision to play Rubik’sson as a striker stems from his performance against Borussia Dortmund during the Club World Cup group stage.
Coach Kim noted Rubik’sson’s strength, shooting ability, and confidence in that match and cited those qualities as reasons for the positional shift. “He is a player with good penetration, shooting, and strength, and he showed confidence,” Kim said. Rubik’sson, who has prior experience playing as a forward in Sweden, responded positively to the move. “I was originally a striker,” he said. “I think I played well in Sweden.”
The adjustment was further encouraged by his teammate Boyanich, who reportedly remarked, “It’s good as a Rubik’sson striker.” The change reflects Kim’s willingness to experiment with roles and formations as Ulsan seeks a fresh start following a grueling international schedule.
Ulsan qualified for the quarterfinals after a convincing 3-0 victory over Incheon United in the Round of 16. In K League 1, the team currently sits seventh with eight wins, five draws, and six losses, totaling 29 points after 19 matches. This Korea Cup fixture is Ulsan’s first official domestic match following their Club World Cup group-stage exit, where they faced Fluminense, Santos, and Borussia Dortmund but failed to advance.
Reflecting on his return from international competition, Kim Pan-gon emphasized the importance of refocusing. “I feel more comfortable coming to Korea,” he said. “We came back after having a good experience.
There may be difficulties, but let’s do well with the mindset of starting again.” He acknowledged that while the team struggled against strong international competition, they also identified key areas for improvement and built confidence that he hopes to translate into domestic success.
With temperatures high during the Korean summer, Kim also urged his players to be mentally and physically prepared. Ulsan now face a critical test against a Gwangju side known for their organized play and attacking threat. The match is set to determine who progresses to the Korea Cup semifinals and could mark a turning point in Ulsan’s season.
