World Cup: South Korea eyes victory over Mexico after 'massive confidence booster'

South Korea enters their top-of-the-group World Cup clash with Mexico brimming with confidence following their opening win against the Czech Republic. However, they face a formidable challenge in Javier Aguirre's side, bolstered by home advantage and a fervent crowd.

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The favorite has to be Mexico.

Experts believe Mexico holds the edge. "The favorite has to be Mexico," said freelance football journalist Steve Han, citing the team's rich history, strong football culture, and consistent presence in World Cup knockout stages. He noted that Mexico's understanding of each other on the field is a significant factor.

Mexico began their campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over nine-man South Africa, with goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez. They will be without defender Cesar Montes due to a red card in that match. A win for either side would secure a spot in the round of 32, with a draw also potentially sufficient given the expanded tournament format.

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You take into account the history that Mexico has, the football culture that they have, the style that they've had that got them to the knockout stage of the World Cup ... for decades really – that counts for something. And when they play, you see that they're a team that understands each other.

Despite Mexico's favored status, Ross Davis, who has covered the K-League, described the upcoming match as potentially "50-50." He praised Mexico's high-pressing style and impressive goal-scoring against South Africa, calling both teams "well-coached, very capable teams, certainly the two best teams in the group."

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Mexico showed against South Africa what a good team that they can be. The way they scored their goals as well, pressing high and winning the ball up high – that was impressive.

South Korea will need to overcome not only a strong Mexican team but also a potentially overwhelming atmosphere. Reporter Jeong Daweo described the environment during the Mexico-South Africa match as "really crazy" and noted that South African players appeared intimidated. South Korea's journey so far has seen them come from behind to defeat the Czech Republic, with goals from Hwang In-beom and Oh Hyeon-gyu overturning an early deficit.

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Two well-coached, very capable teams, certainly the two best teams in the group.