South Korea eyes group top spot against Mexico, aims to break second-match jinx

South Korea's national football team aims to secure the top spot in Group A of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers when they face host nation Mexico on June 19. After a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic, South Korea is level on points with Mexico, who defeated South Africa 2-0. A win against Mexico would place South Korea first in the group due to the 'winner-take-all' principle for head-to-head results, potentially leading to a more advantageous knockout stage draw. Finishing first would mean playing against a third-place team from another group, with subsequent matches also held in Mexico City, offering rest and reduced travel.

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The Mexico game is the most important in our group. They are a strong team with the home advantage. We will prepare for the players to overcome these challenges and play a good game.

However, Mexico presents a formidable challenge. Historically, South Korea holds a losing record against Mexico in international matches, with 4 wins, 3 draws, and 8 losses. Their World Cup encounters have also resulted in defeats. Adding to the concern is South Korea's "second-match jinx" in World Cup group stages, where they have never secured a victory, accumulating 4 draws and 7 losses. Head coach Hong Myung-bo acknowledged the significance of the match, stating, "The Mexico game is the most important in our group. They are a strong team with the home advantage. We will prepare for the players to overcome these challenges and play a good game."

Mexico is known for its passionate home support and solid organization. Coach Hong identified Mexico's strong individual skills, creative midfield play, and aggressive pressing as key threats. Midfielder Hwang In-beom echoed these sentiments, highlighting Mexico's effective individual marking and rapid transitions between offense and defense. Despite these strengths, Mexico has a notable weakness: their average height of 179.5 cm, shorter than South Korea's 181.9 cm. Furthermore, their tallest player and starting defender, Cesar Montes (195 cm), is suspended for the match after a red card in their previous game, potentially creating opportunities for South Korea in set-piece situations.

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Mexico has good individual pressing ability. How we overcome this will be important. Also, their transition speed is fast.

South Korea anticipates a similar starting lineup to their previous match, though striker Oh Hyun-kyu, who scored as a substitute, might earn a starting spot. Coach Hong emphasized the importance of controlling the game's rhythm and momentum, especially against a vociferous home crowd. The unpredictable weather in Guadalajara, with a forecast of light rain, could also be a factor. The team's ability to adapt and impose their style of play will be critical in navigating these challenges and achieving their goal of topping the group.

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Our players have a lot of experience playing in front of large crowds. It's important when we take control of the game and rhythm.