Times of San Diego will offer match previews of U.S. and Mexico games during the World Cup. For more, see our 2026 World Cup Guide to local watch parties.
Match: Mexico vs South Korea
When: 6 p.m., Thursday
How to watch: Fox5 San Diego, Telemundo and Peacock.
The two nations are familiar with each other, having previously squared off in the group stage of the World Cup. In Russia in 2018, Mexico won 2-1, and in France in 1998, Mexico came out on top 3-1. The winner on Thursday will likely end up as the top seed out of Group A; a draw leaves things in limbo as to who makes it to the knockout round.
Mexico
Mexico did not disappoint in its World Cup opener, a 2-0 victory over South Africa, but is probably kicking itself considering the team had a two-man advantage for eight minutes and should have scored more.
Strengths: Mexico got stellar performances from forwards Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez, both of whom found the back of the net against Bafana Bafana. One negative for the team, led by head coach Javier Aguirre? It will be without the services of defender César Montes after a controversial red card issued when he attempted to prevent a counterattack from South Africa in the final minutes.
Also of note – El Tri will no longer have the same advantage in terms of altitude when the action shifts to Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, at 5,200 feet, from Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, at 7,350 feet. Without the services of Montes, it will be imperative for Mexico to minimize turnovers, particularly in the midfield; the South Korean attackers can use their speed and exploit any opening in the backline.
Keep an eye on: Goalkeeper Raúl “Tala” Rangel, who undoubtedly be called upon to make more saves than he did against South Africa. South Korea has a much more potent attack. It includes Son Heung-Min, who had several chances to score versus Czechia, but was unable to find the back of the net.
South Korea
South Korea comes in to the match after an inspirational 2-1 comeback victory over Czechia in its World Cup opener at Akron Stadium. The team, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo, was on the front-foot the entire match, creating quality scoring chances and controlling 62% of the possession.
Strengths: South Korea did not suffer any injuries or receive any red cards and will have the advantage of not needing to travel for the game. While the team is vulnerable to set pieces and corner kicks, it likes to pressure and plays with a disciplined fervor that will force El Tri to be accurate in its passing.
Keep on eye on: The team’s ability to take advantage of mistakes. They may seek to frustrate Mexico’s attack by forcing players into long passes that are easier to intercept.
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