Mexico vs South Korea: Uruguayan Gustavo Tejera chosen by FIFA to referee the match

The Mexican national team is preparing for its second match in the 2026 North America World Cup, facing South Korea on Thursday, June 18, at the Guadalajara stadium. After a 2-0 victory against South Africa in their opening game, coach Javier Aguirre is looking to secure another win to advance towards the next round and potentially clinch the top spot in Group A. Mexico would practically secure first place with a win, although they still have a final match against the Czech Republic. Aguirre is reportedly planning three changes to the starting lineup. Edson Álvarez is expected to step in for César Montes, who received a red card in the previous match. Gilberto Mora may replace Brian Gutiérrez, and Jorge Sánchez is anticipated to start in defense instead of Israel Reyes. The FIFA Referees Committee has appointed Uruguayan referee Gustavo Tejera to officiate the match. The 36-year-old Tejera will be making his World Cup debut. He has held the FIFA badge since 2016 and has experience in Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana, and World Cup qualifiers for CONMEBOL. He will be assisted by fellow Uruguayans Carlos Barreiro and Nicolás Taran, with Colombian Andrés Rojas as the fourth official and Alexander Guzmán as the reserve assistant referee. This marks the second consecutive match for the Mexican team to be officiated by a South American referee, following Wilton Sampaio's appointment for the opening game against South Africa.