Before the host nation's pride came concern. In the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) North and Central America World Cup, South Korea, which was drawn into the same group as Mexico, is being mentioned as a favorite to finish first in Group A, drawing the attention of local fans. It is significant that this assessment came from opinion within Mexico.
Politico Mexico on the 19th (Korean time) released the results of a poll of Mexican citizens ahead of the North and Central America World Cup finals. The survey asked which team would finish first in Group A.
The South Korea national soccer team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, was placed in Group A for this World Cup group stage alongside Mexico, South Africa, and the winner of European qualifying playoff D (one of Denmark, North Macedonia, Ireland or the Czech Republic).
Korea will play all three group matches in Mexico. The first and second matches will be at Akron Stadium in Guadalajara, and the third will be at BBVA Stadium in Monterrey. Both in schedule and atmosphere the conditions are not easy, but Mexican public opinion did not regard Korea as an easy opponent.
The team that received the most votes in the poll was Mexico. 42.7% of respondents predicted their national team would finish first in Group A. But what drew attention was what came next. A full 17.1% of respondents expected Korea to surpass Mexico and finish first in the group. Excluding the co-host, it was the highest figure.
The outlet said, "Korea is Mexico's main rival," and added, "Mexican citizens also recognize Korea as the strongest rival in the group stage." It went on, "17.1% of respondents predicted that Korea could surprise everyone and rise to first place in Group A."
By contrast, only 2.8% of respondents expected South Africa to finish first in the group, and 13.4% predicted the winner of European playoff D would top Group A. Judged by the numbers alone, even within Mexico the Group A dynamic is perceived as a two-horse race of "Mexico vs. Korea."
Praise from foreign media that has continued since the draw, and the host nation fans' vigilance. Hong Myung-bo's team has not yet touched a ball in the tournament, but it is already at the center of Group A. It is a sign that Korea is ready to shake up the board once again at the North and Central America World Cup.
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