Ex-Korea Coach Lee Young-pyo: 'High Chance Korea Finishes Second in Group'

Former South Korean national football team commentator Lee Young-pyo anticipates a strong performance from South Korea in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, projecting them to secure second place in Group A.

Lee, speaking to reporters in Mexico, suggested that the most probable scenario involves Mexico topping the group, leveraging their home advantage and fervent fan support. He sees South Korea as the likely runner-up.

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Korea has a pretty high probability of finishing second in the group.

The former player highlighted the critical importance of the opening match, stating that a victory would significantly influence the team's overall performance, potentially determining 80-90% of their success. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to win if they perform to their potential.

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The most realistic scenario is that Mexico, with their recent performance, home advantage, and one-sided support, will take first place in Group A. Korea will follow.

Looking ahead to the first match against the Czech Republic on June 12, Lee noted that failing to secure a win could increase pressure for subsequent games. He analyzed the Czech team as a similar competitor for the second spot, but believes South Korea holds an edge due to greater World Cup experience, as most Czech players are first-time participants.

Furthermore, Lee pointed to South Korea's early arrival and acclimatization to the high altitude in Mexico as a distinct advantage. He explained that adapting to the altitude is crucial not only for physical conditioning but also for general environmental familiarity, an area where the Korean team's proactive approach should benefit them.

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Winning the first game and getting three points will determine 80-90% of the team's performance. If our players perform to their capabilities, we have a good chance of winning.

However, Lee cautioned against underestimating the Czech Republic's aerial prowess, particularly from set pieces like corner kicks and free kicks. He stressed the need for South Korea's central defenders, Kim Min-jae and Lee Han-beom, to effectively counter the opponent's aerial threats. He also interpreted the recent experimentation with the lineup in friendly matches as a sign of the coaching staff's confidence in the team's depth and readiness for the tournament.

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If we don't win the first game, the pressure will increase sequentially from the second game. The Czech Republic, our actual competitor for second place, will be in a similar situation.