2007 Korea National League Championship: Suwon City Secures Second Title
The 2007 Korea National League Championship marked the fourth edition of this prestigious competition, bringing together the top talent in South Korean semi-professional football. Held in the cities of Yanggu and Gangwon from 5 to 16 July 2007, the tournament showcased intense competition among 16 teams vying for national glory.
This year's tournament was notable for the inclusion of invited teams, including Cheonan FC, Jeonju EM, Asan FC, and Gumi Siltron, adding fresh dynamics to the established league structure.
Tournament Overview and Key Facts
The championship followed a rigorous format, beginning with a group stage that transitioned into a high-stakes knockout phase. After a series of hard-fought matches, Suwon City emerged victorious, claiming their second championship title.
Key Facts
- Champion: Suwon City (their 2nd title)
- Runner-up: Goyang KB Kookmin Bank
- Top Scorer: Ko Min-gi with 7 goals
- Best Player: Park Hee-wan
- Best Goalkeeper: Kim Ji-woon
- Host Locations: Yanggu and Gangwon, South Korea
Group Stage Results
The 16 participating teams were divided into four groups (A, B, C, and D). The top teams from each group advanced to the quarter-finals.
Group A
Busan Transportation Corporation led the group with 7 points, followed closely by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard. Gumi Siltron and Daejeon KHNP rounded out the group.
Group B
Goyang KB Kookmin Bank dominated Group B, finishing undefeated with 9 points. Changwon City secured the second spot with 6 points, while Ansan Hallelujah and Jeonju EM failed to advance.
Group C
Suwon City displayed clinical efficiency in Group C, finishing at the top with 9 points. Incheon Korail followed in second place, while Icheon Hummel Korea and Asan FC were eliminated.
Group D
Gangneung City and Seosan Omega both finished with 7 points, securing their places in the knockout stage. Cheonan FC and Yeosu INGNEX did not progress.
The Knockout Stage
The knockout phase began on 12 July 2007 with the quarter-finals. The matches were characterized by narrow margins and intense defensive displays.
Quarter-finals
- Incheon Korail defeated Busan Transportation Corporation (1–0)
- Goyang KB Kookmin Bank defeated Seosan Omega (6–4)
- Suwon City defeated Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (2–0)
- Changwon City defeated Gangneung City (1–0)
Semi-finals
The semi-finals saw Goyang KB Kookmin Bank deliver a commanding 4–0 victory over Incheon Korail. The second semi-final was a much tighter affair, with Suwon City and Changwon City playing to a 0–0 draw through extra time (a.e.t.). Suwon City eventually advanced to the final after winning a penalty shootout 4–2.
The Final
The championship final took place on 16 July 2007. In a closely contested match, Suwon City defeated Goyang KB Kookmin Bank with a score of 1–0, officially securing their second championship trophy.
Tournament Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Winner | Suwon City |
| Runner-up | Goyang KB Kookmin Bank |
| Top Scorer | Ko Min-gi (7 goals) |
| Best Player | Park Hee-wan |
| Best Goalkeeper | Kim Ji-woon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which team won the 2007 Korea National League Championship?
Suwon City won the tournament, marking their second championship title.
Who was the most prolific scorer in the tournament?
Ko Min-gi was the top goal scorer, finishing the competition with 7 goals.
Where was the 2007 championship held?
The tournament was hosted in Yanggu and Gangwon, South Korea.
How many teams participated in the 2007 edition?
A total of 16 teams participated in the competition.
How did Suwon City win their semi-final match?
Suwon City advanced to the final by defeating Changwon City in a penalty shootout (4–2) after the match ended 0–0 in extra time.