Mexico failed to impress on Thursday during the opening match of “their” 2026 World Cup, yet they managed a 2-0 victory over South Africa at Mexico City Stadium to take the lead in Group A. While this was merely the tournament’s first game, El Tri must keep winning to secure a spot in the next round.
Javier Aguirre himself admitted to TV Azteca in the mixed zone that he was unhappy with his team’s defensive performance and noted areas for improvement ahead of their next match—which will be against the group’s toughest opponent on paper. Group play continues later this evening, June 11, at 8:00 PM.
Now, El Tri must travel to Guadalajara for their next fixture; a win there would secure a place in the 2026 World Cup Round of 32. However, the priority will clearly be to keep winning, as finishing first would allow them to control their destiny to some extent.
When does Mexico play South Korea?
The Mexican national team will face South Korea next Thursday, June 18, at Guadalajara Stadium at 7:00 PM. This gives them a week to rectify today’s shortcomings and decide who will replace the sent-off César Montes.
It promises to be a tough clash for “Vasco” Aguirre’s squad, as they face a fast, disciplined team featuring talents like Heung-min Son. Although Son now plays in MLS, he possesses the quality to carry the South Korean side, meaning El Tricolor cannot afford to be overconfident or rest on their laurels.
Mexico enters the match with three points and a +2 goal difference, though they are at a disadvantage regarding Fair Play due to César Montes’ red card—staying ahead of South Africa in that metric only because the South Africans suffered two sendings-off this Thursday afternoon at Estadio Azteca.
Source: msn
