The Mexican national soccer team will face one of its most important matches of the 2026 World Cup group stage when it takes on South Korea in Guadalajara. After both teams kicked off with wins on the first matchday of Group A, the match is shaping up to be a key clash in the race to advance to the next round.
While Mexico heads into the match on a high after defeating South Africa 2-0, the South Koreans did the same by beating the Czech Republic 2-1. The result left both teams at the top of the standings and turned next Thursday’s match into a true battle for the group lead.
South Korea recognizes Mexico’s strength
Lee Han-Beom, a central defender for the South Korean national team, acknowledged that Mexico will have a significant advantage by playing at home at Estadio Guadalajara.
A large turnout of Mexican fans is expected.
However, the player made it clear that his team isn’t going into the match feeling intimidated.
As he explained, South Korea has been working to adapt to the conditions it will encounter in Mexico.
And he believes he has what it takes to go head-to-head against Javier Aguirre’s team.
In addition to home-field advantage, Lee mentioned that altitude will be one of the most challenging factors for his team.
Although he assured that the group is prepared to meet that challenge.
Experience vs. Mexican fans
The defender recalled a previous match between South Korea and Mexico played in the United States in 2025.
An experience that gave him a firsthand look at the passion of the Mexican national team’s fans.
Lee highlighted the passion of Mexican fans and acknowledged that playing in Guadalajara will only increase the pressure.
However, he believes that South Korea has experienced players capable of handling complex situations.
Among them, players such as Son Heung-min and Kim Min-jae stand out.
Leaders of a generation aiming to bring South Korea back to the later stages of the World Cup.
Altitude will be one of the most demanding factors for his selection
NuevaOnda.com
What are South Korea’s strengths?
According to Lee Han-Beom, his team’s greatest strength is its combination of determination, discipline, and technical skill.
The defender noted that South Korea has players who are better at controlling the ball and building plays more effectively than in previous tournaments.
Even so, he admitted that the team continues to work on improving its defensive play and becoming a more solid unit.
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