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FIFA World Cup
The East Asian side showed immense grit to come from behind to defeat Czechia 2-1 in their opening match but will have to tread with caution against co-hosts Mexico, who impressed in their 2-0 win against South Africa.
Son Heung-min, by his standards, was not at his best against Czechia, with the skipper missing several chances but remains Korea Republic’s biggest attacking threat, while head coach Hong Myung-bo can also call on the creativity of Lee Kang-in and the direct running of Hwang Hee-chan.
At the back, Kim Min-jae’s leadership will be crucial against a Mexico attack that has already shown its finishing quality.
At the back, Kim Min-jae’s leadership will be crucial against a Mexico attack that has already shown its finishing quality.
Mexico, however, will feel they are the favourites with Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez- who both scored against South Africa - leading their charge. Veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa is also a calming influence and the co-hosts will also have the backing of their passionate fans.
Mexico have had the better of this fixture, winning the most notable recent competitive meeting 2-1 at the FIFA World Cup 2018 but Korea Republic will take confidence from their 2-2 friendly stalemate in September last year.
Mexico have had the better of this fixture, winning the most notable recent competitive meeting 2-1 at the FIFA World Cup 2018 but Korea Republic will take confidence from their 2-2 friendly stalemate in September last year.
Mexico v Korea Republic
Venue: Estadio Guadalajara (Zapopan
Kick-off: Thursday, 19:00 (UTC-6)
Venue: Estadio Guadalajara (Zapopan
Kick-off: Thursday, 19:00 (UTC-6)
