2016 KEB Hana Bank FA Cup: Suwon Samsung Bluewings Claim Fourth Title
The 2016 KEB Hana Bank FA Cup, marking the 21st edition of South Korea's premier knockout football tournament, concluded with a dramatic showdown between two of the nation's most prominent clubs. After a grueling competition spanning from March to December, Suwon Samsung Bluewings emerged as the champions, securing their fourth FA Cup title and earning a prestigious qualification for the 2017 AFC Champions League.
The tournament featured a massive field of 83 teams, ranging from professional K League sides to university and amateur clubs, creating a diverse landscape of competition that tested the depth and resilience of every participant.
Key Facts
- Champions: Suwon Samsung Bluewings (4th title)
- Runners-up: FC Seoul
- Top Goal Scorer: Adriano (5 goals)
- Best Player Award: Yeom Ki-hun
- Tournament Duration: 12 March – 3 December 2016
- Total Participating Teams: 83
Tournament Overview and Statistics
The 2016 edition was characterized by high-scoring matches and intense penalty shootouts. While Suwon Samsung Bluewings took home the trophy, individual performances also stood out, particularly from Adriano, who led the tournament in scoring with five goals, and Yeom Ki-hun, who was honored as the tournament's best player.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | South Korea |
| Winner | Suwon Samsung Bluewings |
| Runner-up | FC Seoul |
| Top Scorer | Adriano (5 goals) |
| Best Player | Yeom Ki-hun |
The Road to the Final
The tournament progressed through several rigorous stages, beginning with the qualifying and early rounds where amateur and university teams fought for a place among the professional giants.
Early Rounds and Qualifying
The first round commenced on 12 March 2016, featuring matches such as Sangji University's dominant 7–1 victory over Daewoong Bio. The second round followed on 26 March, narrowing the field as teams like Konkuk University and Yonsei University continued their runs.
By the third round, held between late April and early May, the competition intensified. Notable results included Daejeon Citizen's 3–0 win over Yonsei University and Bucheon FC 1995's hard-fought victory over Halla University.
The Knockout Stages
The tournament entered its most critical phase with the Round of 32 on 11 May 2016. This round saw significant action, including Adriano's impressive four-goal performance for FC Seoul in a 4–2 extra-time victory against Daegu FC.
The Round of 16 and Quarter-finals further distilled the competition. In the quarter-finals, Suwon Samsung Bluewings advanced past Seongnam FC in a tense penalty shootout, while FC Seoul overcame Jeonnam Dragons in a similar fashion.
Semi-finals and the Grand Final
The semi-finals, played on 26 October 2016, set the stage for a massive rivalry. FC Seoul secured their spot in the final with a 1–0 win over Bucheon FC 1995, while Suwon Samsung Bluewings defeated Ulsan Hyundai 3–1.
The final was a two-legged affair. The first leg on 27 November saw Suwon Samsung Bluewings take a 2–1 lead at home. The second leg on 3 December at the Seoul World Cup Stadium was an epic encounter. Although FC Seoul won the second leg 2–1 in extra time, the aggregate score was tied at 3–3. The championship was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout, which Suwon Samsung Bluewings won 10–9 to claim the title.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 2016 KEB Hana Bank FA Cup?
Suwon Samsung Bluewings won the tournament, marking their fourth FA Cup title.
Who was the top scorer of the tournament?
Adriano was the top goal scorer, finishing the tournament with 5 goals.
How many teams participated in the 2016 edition?
A total of 83 teams participated in the competition.
Which player received the Best Player award?
Yeom Ki-hun was named the best player of the tournament.
What was the result of the final between Suwon Samsung Bluewings and FC Seoul?
After the two legs ended in a 3–3 aggregate tie, Suwon Samsung Bluewings won the title via a penalty shootout (10–9).