South Korea readies for World Cup showdown with Mexico as injured defender returns

Defender Kim Tae-hyeon, who suffered an ankle sprain during training in Zapopan, was initially expected to miss the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Team doctor Song Jun-seob later confirmed the injury was less severe, and Kim could be available for South Korea's second Group A match against Mexico at Estadio Guadalajara.

South Korea opened the tournament with a 2-1 victory over Czechia, where midfielder Lee Kang-in supplied the equaliser. Lee now faces his former club coach Javier Aguirre, who leads Mexico, adding a personal subplot to the upcoming clash. The match, scheduled for Thursday evening local time, will determine which side gains a prime position to top Group A. Midfielder Bae Jun-ho continues his recovery from a separate ankle injury, while South Korea prepares for the encounter against the co‑host nation.