World Cup Group A rivals Czech Republic and Mexico win final friendlies

As South Korea prepares to face them in the 2026 World Cup, both Czech Republic and Mexico, drawn into Group A with the Taeguk Warriors, have secured victories in their final preparatory matches. These wins offer a final confidence boost before the tournament kicks off.

The Czech Republic, currently ranked 41st by FIFA, defeated Guatemala 3-1 in a friendly held in New Jersey. This victory follows their earlier win against Kosovo (78th) on June 1st, marking a two-game winning streak. The Czechs demonstrated dominance in the air, with forward Tomáš Hoř (31), standing at 199cm, scoring the decisive header in the 72nd minute from a David Douděra cross. Denis Višinský (23) sealed the win in the 79th minute by pressuring the opponent's goalkeeper into an error.

Despite the win, the Czech defense showed moments of vulnerability, particularly during counter-attacks when their defensive line was exposed. However, the team appears to have concluded their preparations with positive momentum. Mexico, also in South Korea's group, likewise achieved a win in their final tune-up game, though details of that match were not provided in this report.

South Korea's first match of the World Cup is scheduled against the Czech Republic on June 12th. The team will need to be wary of the Czech Republic's aerial strength and offensive capabilities, while also exploiting any defensive weaknesses observed in their recent friendlies.