South Korea faces potential early exit from World Cup qualifiers after loss to Mexico

South Korea's hopes of topping their group in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers were dashed with a narrow 0-1 defeat against host nation Mexico. However, the team still holds a strong position to advance to the Round of 32.

Coach Hong Myung-bo's squad now sits in second place in Group A with one win and one loss, trailing Mexico, who have secured first place with two wins. The crucial final group match against South Africa presents an opportunity for South Korea to secure their progression. A draw or a win against South Africa will guarantee their spot in the next round.

This favorable scenario is partly due to a new FIFA rule implemented for this tournament, which prioritizes head-to-head results when teams have equal points. South Korea holds an advantage in this regard, having previously defeated Czech Republic. Even if South Korea earns just one point against South Africa and Czech Republic secures a large victory over Mexico, South Korea would still finish second.

Adding to South Korea's advantage, South Africa will be without key midfielders Teboho Mokoena, who is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards, and Themba Zwane, who received a red card in the opening match. South Korea, on the other hand, has no players suspended due to cards and no significant injury concerns so far. If South Korea secures second place, they are set to face the second-place team from Group B, which includes Canada, Switzerland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Qatar, in Los Angeles.