The Mexican National Team will face one of its toughest tests of the 2026 World Cup this Thursday when it takes on South Korea at Guadalajara Stadium. In addition to the battle for the top spot in Group A, the weather appears to be a factor that could influence the development of the match.
According to reports from the National Meteorological Service for the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area, there is a high probability of rain during the second half of the day, precisely in the hours before and after the match scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
Authorities expect a morning with mild temperatures and partly cloudy skies. However, during the afternoon, the possibility of widespread showers accompanied by west winds of approximately 20 kilometers per hour will increase.
The forecast includes the municipality of Zapopan, where Guadalajara Stadium is located. Therefore, fans and visitors traveling to the El Bajío area should consider the possibility of rainfall and longer travel times due to weather conditions.
Raúl Jiménez is a key figure in the match.
Mexico Looks to Move Closer to the Round of 16
The team managed by Javier Aguirre arrives with confidence after defeating South Africa 2-0 in the opening match. South Korea also started with a victory after coming from behind to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1.
Both teams have three points, although Mexico sits at the top of the group thanks to a superior goal difference. A victory would allow El Tri to take a decisive step toward the next round.
South Korea opened with a victory after coming from behind to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1.
South Korea Arrives Amid Controversy
The lead-up to the match was also marked by an incident that generated concern within the Asian delegation. During a private training session in Guadalajara, a drone flew over the facilities where the South Korean team was practicing.
Head coach Hong Myung-bo confirmed the incident during a press conference.
“While we were training, there was indeed a drone. We became aware of it before practice, before showing our tactics. It did not significantly affect us; in fact, it did not affect us at all. It is unfortunate,” he stated.
The coach added:
“As we were about to practice our tactics, it does not appear to have had a significant impact, but it is still very unfortunate that this happened at the most crucial moment of preparation for the match.”
Following the incident, FIFA received a formal complaint from the Korea Football Association and requested an investigation to determine the origin of the device.
With rain in the forecast, the group lead at stake, and an atmosphere filled with tension, Guadalajara is preparing to host one of the most attractive matches of the 2026 World Cup group stage.
FIFA Fan Fest in Mexico City Expands
Expectations for the match have forced organizers of the FIFA Fan Festival in Mexico City to make adjustments to accommodate more fans.
Due to the high demand expected for Thursday’s match, June 18, organizers announced the expansion of available spaces and the installation of additional screens on nearby streets, allowing more people to follow El Tri’s performance even if they are unable to enter the main venue.
Expectations for the match have forced organizers of the FIFA Fan Festival in Mexico City to make adjustments to accommodate more fans.
Fan Fest Expects Thousands of Supporters
Access to the FIFA Fan Festival will open at 8:30 a.m. The venue will have a capacity of 55,000 people, so organizers recommended arriving early and planning transportation in advance.
In addition to Mexico’s match, the day will feature other World Cup games on giant screens:
Czech Republic vs South Africa | 10:00 a.m.
Switzerland vs Bosnia | 1:00 p.m.
Canada vs Qatar | 4:00 p.m.
Mexico vs South Korea | 7:00 p.m.
Recommendations for Attendees
Authorities also issued a series of recommendations for those attending the event. Due to the possibility of rain in Mexico City, they suggested wearing waterproof clothing and comfortable footwear.
For those planning to stay throughout the entire day, officials also recommended using sunscreen, staying hydrated, and following the instructions of security personnel.
The World Cup atmosphere continues to grow in Mexico City, and the FIFA Fan Festival is shaping up to be one of the main gathering points for fans looking to experience the excitement of the match between El Tri and South Korea up close.
Source: infobae
