Mexico and South Korea, leaders of Group A with three points each, face each other this Thursday, June 18 at the Akron Stadium, in Guadalajara, for the second day of the 2026 World Cup. The match is at 8:00 p.m. in Guatemala and defines the provisional leader of the area.
The Mexican team, led by Javier Aguirre, has just beaten South Africa 2-0 with goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez. However, the suspension of César Montes forces adjustments to be made in defense. Edson Álvarez, Jesús Gallardo and Jiménez’s experience will be important pieces to remain undefeated and take advantage of the home field.
South Korea, under the direction of Hong Myung-bo, came back against the Czech Republic 2-1 thanks to goals from Hwang In-beom and Oh Hyeon-gyu. Son Heung-min continues as their main offensive reference and a constant threat to rival defenses. The Asians will seek to neutralize the Mexican midfield and take advantage of the spaces.
The record favors Mexico, with four wins and a draw in the last five matches. However, South Korea arrives with confidence after its triumph in the debut. A victory would leave the winner very close to qualifying for the round of 16, while a draw would keep the fight for leadership open.
The key to the match will be control of the midfield and effectiveness in the areas. Mexico has an advantage due to its home status, although South Korea has arguments to compete on equal terms.