As a replacement for Kim, Hwang Sun-Pil, an experienced defender brought into the club in 2004 as a draftee, was made captain.

In 2008, Daegu became famous with their extremely aggressive football, becoming the joint equal top-scoring team of the K-League, alongside Suwon.

An eleventh place in the K-League standings was the eventual outcome, winning a reasonably impressive eight games, but drawing only two, both against Daejeon Citizen.

For the first time in its history, Daegu reached the semi-finals of the Korean FA Cup, by defeating Ulsan in the quarterfinals, following a win in the round of 16 over Ansan Hallelujah.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.