South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo confirms starting XI for Czech Republic match

South Korean national football team coach Hong Myung-bo announced that all preparations for their opening match against the Czech Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers are finalized. He confirmed that the starting lineup of 11 players has been decided. "The 11 players for the Czech match are clearly set in my mind," Hong stated during a press conference. He expressed satisfaction with the team's condition and their adaptation to the high altitude in Mexico, noting that any initial disparities in acclimatization have been resolved. "Players can play the game with a sense of relief and confidence that they have adapted to the high altitude," he added. Hong, who led the team in the 2014 Brazil World Cup, reflected on his second World Cup challenge as a coach, calling it an honor. He believes the team has prepared well based on past experiences and has created an atmosphere where players can compete with excitement and energy. The team is set to play their first match on the 12th, after their final training session.

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The 11 players for the Czech match are clearly set in my mind.