South Korea aims to break 16-year World Cup second-match jinx against Mexico

South Korea's national football team achieved a significant milestone, winning their first World Cup opening match in 16 years by defeating the Czech Republic 2-1. This victory sets the stage for their next crucial fixture against co-host Mexico in the 2026 North, Central American, and Caribbean World Cup qualifiers.

The upcoming match against Mexico on July 19th is being framed as a de facto group decider, as both teams secured opening wins: South Korea against the Czech Republic and Mexico against South Africa. A victory would allow the winning team to prepare more comfortably for the round of 32.

Breaking the "second match losing streak" is a major objective for South Korea. Since their first World Cup appearance in 1954, the team has never won a second group stage match across 11 tournaments, including the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup where they drew 1-1 with the United States in their second game. The upcoming match presents a formidable challenge, as Mexico is the home team and has defeated South Korea in their two previous World Cup encounters.

However, South Korea faces Mexico with some advantages. Mexico's starting center-back, Cesar Montes, received a red card in their first match and will be suspended. Additionally, Mexico's squad, with 12 domestic players among the 26, is considered by some to be less formidable than in previous tournaments. Coach Hong Myung-bo acknowledged the importance of the match, stating, "Both Korea and the opponent (Mexico) consider it an important game. Mexico will put pressure on the opponent by playing with the support of many fans, but since we won the first game, I think there are positive aspects (for team morale)." The team is preparing intensely for the match after a recovery day.