Prediction & Betting Tips | K League 1: Ulsan Hyundai vs Daegu FC
Mason OptiMetrics
Match: K League 1
Fixture: Ulsan Hyundai vs Daegu FC
Local Kick-off Time: 19:00 on July 12, 2025 (Korean local time)
Venue: Ulsan Munsu Stadium
Team Strength Summary:
Home side Ulsan Hyundai, a traditional powerhouse in the K League 1 with a glorious history, have struggled with inconsistent form this season. Currently sitting 7th in the table, they are on a 5-game losing streak, scoring 3 goals and conceding 10 in those 5 matches—both attack and defense have been subpar. However, their attacking core Erik Farias has performed impressively, netting 8 goals to rank 5th in the scoring chart. His hold-up play and heading ability could pose a threat to Daegu’s defense. Additionally, Ulsan’s shot accuracy stood at only 28% during the losing streak, leaving room for improvement. If they can activate their wingers' dribbling ability, their offensive firepower is expected to increase.
Away side Daegu FC are in a tough spot, bottom of the league with 13 points. A loss here would further worsen their relegation prospects. In their last 10 matches, they have 1 win, 3 draws, and 6 losses, averaging 0.9 goals scored and 1.9 conceded per game—suffering from weak attack and defensive vulnerabilities. They are particularly poor on the road, with 2 draws and 8 losses, making them typical road strugglers. However, they could exploit Ulsan’s potential mental fluctuations to seize the initiative early and look for chances through set-piece tactics, as Ulsan’s set-piece defense success rate is only 72%.
Handicap Prediction:
Ulsan -1 (Asian Handicap)
Home Win (European Odds)
Predicted Scores: 3-0, 3-1, 4-1
Changes in Betting Data:
Major Asian bookmakers currently set the initial Asian Handicap at Ulsan -1, while European Odds opened with 1.49-4.44 5.40. Considering both teams' recent form and strength, Ulsan is undoubtedly the more trustworthy side. In Asian Handicap, Ulsan’s odds have been falling steadily, with a potential handicap rise likely. Amid overwhelming fan support for Ulsan, the home win odds in European markets have remained stable—showing that excessive early favoritism is not conducive to Ulsan delivering, but European odds control clearly indicates stronger backing for Ulsan to secure the win.
Predicted Goals: 3, 4, 5
Changes in Betting Data (Goals):
Based on major Asian betting centers, the initial total goals line was 2.75, which has gradually risen to 3. This supports the offensive performance of both teams, especially Ulsan’s form. Having just exited the Club World Cup with three group stage losses, Ulsan will aim to prove themselves in the league. Currently just one step away from the championship play off zone, they will not hold back. With over odds maintaining medium to high returns, the over option is optimal in terms of both returns and team performance given their recent form.
Predicted Corner Kicks: Over 9
Corner Kick Analysis:
Ulsan typically uses a 4-4-2 formation. In attack, triangular passing on the flanks (wing-back + attacking midfielder + side center-back) is key to breaking defenses. This approach often creates corners via crosses during flank advances. Daegu mostly adopts a 3-4-3 formation, relying on wing midfielders for offensive link-up, with attacks focused on counter attacking and long balls. Tactically, both teams have strengths in generating corners: Ulsan emphasizes flank charges, while Daegu relies more on set pieces to initiate attacks. Overall, the number of corners in this match is expected to be high.