- Here is the Mexico vs South Korea prediction article for World Cup 2026 which breaks down form, key players and H2H meetings ahead of the clash.
- The match will be staged at the Akron Stadium on Friday June 19.
- Kickoff is at 4:00am EAT.
After securing victories in their opening 2026 FIFA World Cup fixtures, Mexico and South Korea lock horns at the Akrona Stadium on Friday morning, each eager to snatch maximum points and seal their passage to the next round.
Mexico, one of the three cohosts, launched their campaign in spectacular fashion, stunning African heavyweights South Africa 2-0 at the Mexico City Stadium.
Thursday’s tournament opener against Bafana Bafabna was a fiery affair. South Africa saw two red cards shown to Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane, while Mexico also had Cesar Montes sent off late, though by then, the damage was done.
Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez netted decisive goals to hand the hosts a commanding start.
ALSO READ: Mexico beat South Africa in FIFA World Cup 2026 opener
South Korea, meanwhile, had to battle from behind to edge Czech Republic 2 -1 in their opener.
The deadlock was broken in the 59th minute when Czech captain Ladislav Krejci headed home.
But the Taegeuk Warriors responded swiftly. Hwang Inbeom equalised in the 67th minute, before Oh Hyeongyu completed the turnaround with an 80th minute winner.
Whoever triumphs here will top the group and advance to the Round of 16 with a game to spare, while the defeated side faces a tense finale, knowing that even a second place finish keeps their hopes alive.
With Czech Republic and South Africa already playing catch up, a victory for either team here would all but guarantee qualification.
Below is the full lowdown on the Mexico vs South Korea showdown, plus some betting insights for your wagers on SportPesa, which offers a wide range of markets and instant payouts.
What time does Mexico vs South Korea kick off?
The two nations square off on Friday, June 19, at the Akron Stadium, with kick off set for 4am East Africa Time.
Mexico vs South Korea team news
Mexico head into this contest with no major injury worries.
Jimenez, Guillermo Ochoa, Edson Alvarez, and Jesus Gallardo are all fit and available.
While youngsters Obed Vargas and Gilberto Mora add depth, manager Javier Aguirre is expected to lean on his seasoned core for this pivotal home World Cup encounter.
However, the co-host nation will be without captain and star centre-back Cesar Montes for this crucial match on Friday.
The Lokomotiv Moscow defender is serving a mandatory one-match suspension after receiving a straight red card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity in the closing stages of the victory over South Africa.
South Korea also boast a full strength squad, spearheaded by captain Son Heungmin.
Bayern Munich defender Kim Minjae anchors the backline, while Hwang Heechan and Lee Kangin offer creativity and attacking menace.
No significant absentees have been reported for Hong Myungbo’s side.
ALSO READ: Czech Republic vs South Africa prediction: World Cup 2026 preview, team news, key stats & h2h
Mexico vs South Korea Predicted Lineups
- Mexico: Ochoa; Sanchez, Montes, J. Vasquez, Gallardo; Alvarez, L. Romo, Orbelin Pineda; R. Alvarado, Jimenez, Gimenez
- South Korea: Jo Hyeonwoo; Seol Youngwoo, Kim Minjae, Lee Taeseok, Kim Moonhwan; Hwang Inbeom, Paik Seungho; Lee Kangin, Son, Hwang Heechan; Oh Hyeongyu
Mexico vs south Korea head to head record and recent meetings
These two sides have met 14 times across all competitions, with their most recent clash ending in a 2-0 friendly draw in September 2025.
Their most memorable encounter came at the 2018 World Cup, where Mexico claimed a 2 -1 victory, keeping their perfect record against South Korea on football’s biggest stage.
Mexico have also posted notable wins in recent friendlies, though South Korea have enjoyed success in past meetings, including victories in 2006 and the 2001 Confederations Cup.
Last 5 recent meetings
- Sept 9, 2025 (Friendly): Mexico 2 – 2 South Korea
- Nov 14, 2020 (Friendly): Mexico 3 – 2 South Korea
- Jun 23, 2018 (FIFA World Cup): South Korea 1 – 2 Mexico
- Jan 29, 2014 (Friendly): Mexico 4 – 0 South Korea
- Jul 26, 2012 (Olympics): Mexico 0 – 0 South Korea
Mexico vs South Korea prediction and betting tips
The atmosphere inside Guadalajara Stadium is expected to strongly favour Mexico, with the home faithful providing a vibrant boost.
While South Korea are likely to pose a sterner test than South Africa, Mexico’s high octane, physical approach could prove pivotal.
Riding the wave of momentum and buoyed by home support, El Tri will fancy their chances of securing the win that sends them through.
However, the Taegeuk Warriors have already showcased their fighting spirit in this tournament and will be desperate to break that duck while strengthening their own qualification bid.
We anticipate both sides getting on the scoresheet, provided they make the most of their opportunities.
Read more about other World Cup teams in 2026 below:
France national football team 2026
Morocco national football team 2026
Argentina national football team 2026
Mexico national football team 2026
Spain national football team 2026
Brazil national football team 2026