Korean football is not even on the radar for the North and Central America World Cup.
The British media outlet 'Planet Football' rated and announced the power rankings for the 2026 North and Central America World Cup. They assessed the top 21 teams expected to perform well in the World Cup.
The results are shocking. Korea did not make it into the top 21. This contrasts sharply with Japan, which ranked 13th overall and claimed the top spot in Asia.
This media noted that 'Japan, which qualifies for every World Cup, secured its place in the North and Central America World Cup with a victory over Bahrain. The overwhelming powerhouse Japan created an upset by defeating Germany and Spain in the last tournament. Japan is seriously aiming for a spot in the finals.'
On the other hand, Korea experienced a shocking 1-1 draw with Oman on the 20th in Goyang, failing to secure early qualification for the World Cup. Kim Min-jae was released from the squad due to injury, and with Lee Kang-in, Baek Seung-ho, and Jeong Seung-hyeon also suffering injuries, the situation became more challenging.
Korea dramatically succeeded in reaching the Round of 16 at the 2022 Qatar World Cup. However, with captain Son Heung-min's skills not as sharp as before, it is hard to guarantee performance in the North and Central America World Cup.
Japan Football Channel compared, saying, 'Japan boasts the title of Asia's strongest. Doan Ritsu has stated that Japan is seriously aiming for victory in the North and Central America World Cup. The situation for Korea, which had claimed to be the tiger of Asia, is not good.'
[OSEN]