Live Blog: Mexico vs Korea Republic in the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mexico and South Korea arrive in Guadalajara with a perfect record. The winner will be just one step away from the Round of 16 in a clash that promises intensity, talent, and excitement from start to finish.

Mexico win 1-0 and secure top spot in the group

Rangel makes a sensational save to keep Mexico in front

Mexico nearly score a second through a brilliant strike from Obed Vargas, but it remains 1-0

After the hydration break, Mexico still lead 1-0

At the 50-minute mark, Romo scores the opener after a dreadful mistake by the South Korean goalkeeper, giving Mexico a 1-0 lead

The second half is underway and Mexico have started brightly

The second half is underway

Halftime with few chances to note. South Korea finished the half stronger, but the match remains 0-0

We've reached the hydration break with the score still 0-0

Before the 20-minute mark, each side has had a clear chance. The score remains 0-0

After 10 minutes of play, neither side has taken clear control and the match remains 0-0

The match is underway in Guadalajara

The lineups

🏟️ When and Where

📅 Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026

🕖 Time (Central Mexico): 7:00 PM

🏟️ Stadium: Guadalajara Stadium

📍 City: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico 🌎

Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 🏆

Group: A ⚽ Match: Mexico vs. South Korea

📺 How and Where to Watch Mexico vs Korea Republic

beIN SPORTS will once again serve as an official broadcaster of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing the excitement of the tournament to audiences across France and the MENA region with full coverage, analysis, news, and the biggest matches from the world’s most important football event.

Click here to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup on beIN SPORTS Connect

If you are outside these regions, here is the complete list of official broadcasters for the 2026 FIFA World Cup around the world.

🇲🇽 Mexico's Preview

The national team led by Javier Aguirre kicked off the 2026 World Cup with a solid 2-0 victory over South Africa, thanks to goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez. El Tri displayed defensive discipline, the composure needed to handle the pressure of the opening match, and a strong connection with their fans.

However, they will have to cope with the absence of defender César Montes, who was sent off in the debut, forcing adjustments in the backline. Mexico leads Group A with three points and will look to capitalize on their home-field advantage to move closer to qualification.

In addition to the positive result in their debut, Mexico left a good impression with their overall team play. The midfield managed to control long stretches of the match thanks to the work of Edson Álvarez and Luis Chávez, while Julián Quiñones' speed caused constant problems for the South African defense. Now, facing a much more dynamic and fast-paced opponent in South Korea, El Tri will need to maintain defensive focus and harness the backing of thousands of fans who will turn Guadalajara Stadium into an absolute fortress.

🇰🇷 South Korea's Preview

The Asian side debuted with a valuable 2-1 comeback victory over the Czech Republic, demonstrating character, speed, and a great capacity to react. After falling behind early, Hong Myung-bo's men found answers in the second half to claim all three points and join Mexico at the top of the group. South Korea arrives with confidence and the intention of imposing their physical intensity and vertical style of play.

The South Korean national team confirmed in their opening match that they are one of the most uncomfortable teams from the Asian continent. Their ability to press high, win the ball back quickly, and attack with fast transitions was decisive in fueling their comeback against the Czech Republic.

With players possessing European experience like Son Heung-min, Lee Kang-in, and Hwang In-beom, South Korea has the necessary tools to compete on equal terms against any opponent and fight for the top spot in Group A.

⭐ Players to Watch

🇲🇽 Raúl Jímenez

Raúl Jiménez llega a este compromiso como el principal referente ofensivo de la selección mexicana. El delantero mostró toda su experiencia en el debut mundialista al marcar uno de los goles de la victoria sobre Sudáfrica, confirmando que sigue siendo una pieza fundamental dentro del esquema de Javier Aguirre. Su capacidad para jugar de espaldas al arco, asociarse con sus compañeros y aparecer en los momentos decisivos lo convierten en una amenaza constante para cualquier defensa.

A sus 35 años, Jiménez atraviesa uno de los momentos más maduros de su carrera. Después de superar lesiones y etapas complicadas, el atacante ha recuperado la confianza y el nivel que lo llevaron a destacar en Europa. Su liderazgo dentro y fuera del campo es uno de los grandes activos del Tri en esta Copa del Mundo.

Frente a Corea del Sur, su experiencia será clave para encontrar espacios ante una defensa disciplinada y físicamente fuerte. Si México logra abastecerlo con balones en el ár

🇰🇷 Son Heung-Min

Son Heung-min remains the top star and undisputed leader of the South Korean national team. Renowned for his speed, tactical intelligence, and goal-scoring ability, the forward is the player around whom much of South Korea's attacking play revolves. Although he did not score in the victory over the Czech Republic, his influence was decisive in generating constant danger.

Son's international career backs him as one of the greatest Asian footballers of all time. His experience in the world's top leagues has allowed him to develop a tremendous knack for stepping up in high-stakes matches. Beyond his individual talent, he stands out for his defensive commitment and his ability to lead his teammates under pressure.

Against Mexico, Son will look to exploit any space left by the opposing defense to unleash his speed and precision in the final third. His battle with the Mexican backline promises to be one of the match's most compelling storylines and could prove decisive in determining the final result.

🎯 Final Analysis

On paper, a highly balanced match is expected between two national teams currently enjoying a great run of form. Mexico will look to capitalize on their home-field advantage to control the tempo of the game, though they must remain alert to South Korea's quick attacking transitions—one of the most dangerous weapons in Hong Myung-bo's side.

The result could have a decisive impact on the future of Group A, as the winner will put themselves on the verge of securing qualification to the Round of 32. Given the quality of both squads and what they showed on matchday one, everything points to an intense, hard-fought duel with drama until the final minute at Guadalajara Stadium.