Thousands Cheer in Seoul Despite World Cup Qualifier Loss to Mexico

Thousands of South Korean fans filled Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, draped in red, to passionately cheer for their national team during the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Mexico. Despite the team's narrow 1-0 defeat, the atmosphere was one of shared excitement and camaraderie, embodying what attendees described as a "festival of the world."

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The match was operated carefully by both teams because if South Africa drew with Czech Republic, both Korea and Mexico could advance to the round of 32 with a draw today, so it seems like both teams played cautiously.

The crowd, estimated to be around 58,000 at its peak, braved the heat and dense crowds, creating a sea of red with Taegeukgi flags and beating noise sticks. The collective chants of "Daehan민국" (Republic of Korea) never ceased, punctuated by gasps of disappointment at missed opportunities and roars of approval for skillful plays. Key moments, like Son Heung-min's shot being blocked near the goal and goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu's crucial saves, elicited strong emotional responses from the spectators.

As the match progressed, the tension mounted. A collision between goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu and defender Lee Ki-hyuk led to Mexico scoring the decisive goal in the second half, leaving many fans visibly disheartened. However, the disappointment was tempered by a spirit of sportsmanship. Fans interacted positively with Mexican supporters, taking photos and exchanging gestures of goodwill, celebrating the shared experience of the global football event.

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I felt confident after the first game, so I thought we dominated this game too. It's a shame that two crucial headers by Cho Gyu-seong were blocked.

Fans expressed their mixed feelings after the match. Kim Nam-jun, 25, acknowledged the tactical caution from both sides due to the group standings but lamented the single mistake that decided the game. Yu, 22, a Marine serving on Baengnyeong Island, felt confident after the first game and believed the team dominated but regretted two missed headers by Cho Gyu-seong. Mexican fans also shared their impressions, with Miguel, 23, noting the intense final 10 minutes and praising goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu's performance, expressing confidence in South Korea's chances to advance.

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The last 10 minutes were very tense with Korea's onslaught. The goalkeeper's (Kim Seung-gyu) performance was remarkable. With this kind of play, they can easily advance to the round of 32.

Cisco, 29, described the match as fierce, suggesting South Korea might have won without the crucial error, and expressed anticipation for their next game, acknowledging the presence of strong offensive players on the Korean team. The event highlighted the unifying power of sports, bringing together diverse groups of people to share in the passion and drama of the World Cup.

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It was a fierce match. If there were no mistakes, Korea would have won. Korea has many good strikers. I look forward to the next match.