Jeonbuk Hyundai U-16 youth team secured a groundbreaking 2-1 victory over Brazil’s Bremer (Docil) in the elite division final of the Iber Cup Cascais 2026 tournament in Cascais, Portugal, on June 6 (Korean time).
Tournament Significance
The Iber Cup stands as Portugal’s premier youth soccer competition, drawing Europe’s top teams and showcasing intense rivalries. This triumph marks the first time a Korean squad has claimed the elite division title, etching Jeonbuk Hyundai into the record books as Asia’s inaugural winner.
Match Highlights
Jeonbuk Hyundai opened the scoring but conceded a penalty kick to level the score at 1-1. They sealed the win with a decisive header in stoppage time, demonstrating resilience under pressure.
Team Composition
The roster features 12 freshmen from the Jeonbuk Hyundai U-18 squad at Jeonju Youngsaeng High School and six third-year players from the U-15 team at Dongdae Busok Gumsan Middle School, totaling 18 dedicated athletes.
Impressive Run
Over seven matches played in relentless rain, the team maintained sharp focus through solid fundamentals and tactical discipline. They edged Canada’s Bellingham SC 1-0 with a crucial header goal. Amid challenges, including a severe knee injury to the U-10 coach forcing the head coach to manage solo, Jeonbuk Hyundai prevailed.
Coach’s Insights
Head coach Lee Do-hyun stated, “Securing victory in the Iber Cup elite division, where top clubs from around the world compete, represents our highest achievement yet. This experience provides tremendous momentum for our players and confirms Jeonbuk Hyundai’s potential to lead as a national youth powerhouse.”
