K League champion Ulsan falls early

[Anchor]

Ulsan, representing the K League at the FIFA Club World Cup, stumbled in their first match against a South African team.

The Club World Cup has struggled to attract the attention of football fans, raising concerns about its early box office performance.

Reporter Lee Jun-hee reports.

[Report]

Ulsan's journey in the Club World Cup did not start smoothly.

The kickoff was delayed by over an hour due to forecasts of lightning.

Amidst a chaotic atmosphere, the match finally began, but K League champions Ulsan conceded a goal just 29 minutes into the first half.

After a corner kick led to a scramble in front of the goal, they initially conceded a goal, but a video review declared a handball foul, allowing them to breathe a sigh of relief.

However, Ulsan's defense continued to falter against the quick South African players, and they conceded the opening goal after a single penetrating pass broke their line.

Having completely lost the momentum, Ulsan's defense was almost breached again, but an offside call spared them from a complete defeat.

In their first match, Ulsan faced the reality of the world stage, and despite the term 'World Cup,' the stands were eerily empty, creating a cold atmosphere.

Only a little over 3,400 spectators attended Ulsan's first match, and despite ambitious plans to significantly increase the number of participating teams and prize money, the Club World Cup is facing a red light in its early stages.

Japan's Urawa Red Diamonds also struggled, losing 3-1 to the prestigious Argentine club River Plate, continuing the early difficulties for Asian teams.

This is KBS News, Lee Jun-hee.