Key facts
- South Korea resumed training on Sunday, June 15, 2026, in preparation for their next FIFA World Cup match against Mexico.
- Both South Korea and Mexico won their opening Group A matches.
- South Korea defeated Czechia 2-1, and Mexico beat South Africa 2-0.
- The crucial Group A match between South Korea and Mexico will take place on Thursday at Estadio Guadalajara.
- Injured players Kim Tae-hyeon and Bae Jun-ho are undergoing recovery and may be available for the match.
South Korea's national football team has resumed training in Zapopan, Mexico, to prepare for their upcoming FIFA World Cup Group A match against Mexico. Following a day off after their opening 2-1 victory over Czechia, the squad underwent conditioning, passing, and shooting drills on Sunday, with tactical work commencing Monday.
Two players, defender Kim Tae-hyeon and midfielder Bae Jun-ho, are working their way back from ankle injuries and participated in stationary bike exercises, though they may be available for the match against Mexico. Kim, in particular, is showing rapid progress despite an initial diagnosis suggesting he could miss the remainder of the group stage.
Analysts anticipate a significantly more determined Mexican side than the one South Korea drew with 2-2 last September. Pundits like KBS analyst Park Chan-ha believe Mexico may have conserved energy in their 2-0 win over South Africa and will present a tougher challenge. Park highlighted the potential threat from Mexican players Robert Alvarado and Brian Gutierrez on the right flank, an area where South Korea's defense has not been extensively tested.
Former South Korean U-23 national team coach Kim Hak-beom echoed concerns about the Mexican attackers, emphasizing the need for South Korean defenders to be aggressive and prevent skilled players from receiving the ball easily. Kim also suggested that South Korea should exploit the space behind Mexico's defense through counterattacks.