Mexico and South Korea will compete for first place in Group A of the 2026 World Cup on Thursday at 7 p.
m. local time at Estadio Guadalajara in Zapopan, western Mexico.
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Both teams won their opening matches. Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 at Estadio Azteca, while South Korea rallied to beat Czechia 2-1.
Both squads have three points.
The match features a notable subplot: South Korean midfielder Lee Kang-in faces his former club manager, Javier Aguirre, who now coaches Mexico.
Aguirre previously developed Lee's talent at RCD Mallorca.
“I believe that (Lee) is the most talented player in the squad and he's so lethal in one-on-one situations,” Aguirre said.
Lee set up South Korea's equalizer against Czechia and previously assisted a goal against Mexico in a 2-2 friendly draw last September.
“It's going to be special but it's not just because of coach Aguirre.
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We know how tough it will be to take on Mexico in Mexico in a World Cup match,” Lee said.
When asked further about Aguirre, Lee said, “I don't have anything to say.” The 25-year-old smiled and added, “He's just an opponent.”
Mexico is ranked 14th in the world, while South Korea is 25th. Mexican defender Cesar Montes is suspended due to a red card against South Africa.
Aguirre may shift Edson Alvarez into central defense alongside Johan Vasquez.
Seventeen-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora is pushing for a starting role for Mexico.
South Korea expects injured players Kim Tae-Hyeon and Bae Jun-Ho to return under coach Hong Myung-bo.
Mexico is expected to use a 4-3-3 formation to control possession at high altitude, while South Korea will counter with a compact 3-4-2-1 system to utilize Son Heung-min's transition speed.
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The physical environment and fan support give Mexico a slight advantage at Estadio Guadalajara.
