Members of the Korean national football team warm up before training at Chivas Valle Verde in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, Mexico, June 15 (local time), ahead of their match against Mexico at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Yonhap
The Korean men's national football team faces what could be its toughest challenge of the World Cup group stage as it takes on host nation Mexico, as they must overcome a partisan home crowd, high altitude conditions and rainy weather in pursuit of a historic victory.
Led by head coach Hong Myung-bo, Korea will face Mexico in its second Group A match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 19 at Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico. After defeating the Czech Republic in its opening match on June 12 to secure the country's first World Cup opener victory in 16 years, Korea can clinch its first-ever two-win start to a World Cup and lock up first place in the group with another victory.
The task, however, comes with significant obstacles.
Korean national team players warm up ahead of their 2026 World Cup Group A football match against the Czech Republic at Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico, June 11. AFP-Yonhap
