The South Korean national team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, faced Mexico on June 19 (Korean time) at the Guadalajara Stadium, suffering a narrow defeat.
With one win and one loss (3 points, goal difference 0), South Korea remains in second place in Group A. In contrast, Mexico, with two consecutive wins (6 points, goal difference +3), has secured first place and a spot in the Round of 32, regardless of the outcome of their remaining matches. Earlier, the Czech Republic and South Africa drew 1-1 in the same group, eliminating South Korea's chances of finishing first.
Playing in a 3-4-2-1 formation, Lee Kang-in started as a midfielder and showcased sharp passing throughout the match, leading the attack.
South Korea finished the first half scoreless, but a lapse in concentration early in the second half proved costly. In the fifth minute of the second half, goalkeeper Kim Seung-kyu (FC Tokyo) collided with defender Lee Gi-hyeok (Gangwon FC) while attempting to handle a high ball, resulting in a loose ball that was capitalized on by Luis Romo, leading to the only goal of the match.
Despite continued pressure from South Korea, they were unable to find the back of the net, and the match concluded with a 1-0 defeat.
Lee, who played the full match but could not prevent the loss, expressed his frustration in a post-match interview, stating, "We prepared to win, but I feel a great disappointment after losing."
He added, "Given that it's the World Cup stage, we need to prepare better. The match is over, so we will focus on the next game and aim for victory."
South Korea will face South Africa in their final group stage match on June 25 at 10 a.m. at the Monterrey Stadium. A draw in this match would secure at least second place in the group and a spot in the Round of 32.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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