Jeonbuk Hyundai, a professional soccer team, has taken a step toward future growth of the youth team.
Jeonbuk Hyundai Youth U12 Team invited Japan's prestigious Kashima Antlers Youth Team to Jeonju from February 29 to March 4 and held a five-day friendly exchange.
Youth exchanges between Jeonbuk Hyundai and Kashima Antlers have been suspended for four years due to the friendship they have had since 2016 and resumed this time.
After arriving in Jeonju on the 29th, the Kashima Antlers youth team homestayed at the homes of Jeonbuk Hyundai youth players, not in general accommodation, and built friendships that overcome not only soccer but also language barriers.
The exchange match played about five games during the stay with both teams and four invited teams (Jeonbuk UTD, Masan FC, Gumi LM, Hanam FC) to compete with each other for Korea-Japan youth soccer.
The players experienced the K League not only in exchange matches but also in the Jeonju World Cup Stadium Tour and the opening game of the K League on March 1.
In addition, leaders of both teams discussed each other's tactics and training methods through strategic meetings and sought ways to develop each other.
Jeonbuk Hyundai U12 team plans to participate in Japan's Kashima Antlers Invitational Competition in the future and play against a number of Japanese youth teams to develop their skills through international experience.
Jeonbuk Hyundai said it will expand international exchanges and overseas training in the future to expand the growth of the youth team and the future capabilities of the club.
Coach Park Bum-hwi, who had a five-day exchange with Kashima Antlers, said, "It was really nice to meet again in four years due to Corona, and it was a meaningful time for the players of both teams," adding, "Through the exchange match with Kashima Antlers, we were able to understand the difference between Korea and Japan's youth soccer and learn and grow together." 스포츠토토