Mexico, the World Cup opponent, also respects Son Heung-min (34, LAFC).
The national soccer team led by coach Hong Myung-bo was placed in Group A at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with host Mexico, South Africa and the Czech Republic. Korea will play its first match against the Czech Republic at Guadalajara Stadium at 11 a.m. on June 12 (Korea time).
Korea will then face host Mexico in a fateful showdown at the same venue at 10 a.m. on the 19th. Korea will clash with South Africa, which it regards as a sacrificial opponent for victory, at Monterrey Stadium at 10 a.m. on the 25th.
It is likely to be Son Heung-min's last dance. Son Heung-min is already a legend of Korean soccer. With 142 appearances in A matches, he surpassed Hong Myung-bo and Cha Bum-kun to become the all-time leader in appearances. He has also scored 54 goals in A matches, closing in to within just two goals of Cha Bum-kun's all-time scoring record (56 goals).
Interest in Son Heung-min is growing even in host Mexico. He is not only important to Korea but also a superstar representing world soccer.
Son Heung-min already faced Mexico at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. In that group stage match against Mexico, Korea scored from Son Heung-min's long-range shot. However, Korea lost 1-2.
Afterward, Son Heung-min scored an additional goal to put Korea ahead 2-0 against Germany, effectively eliminating Germany from the group stage. As a result, Mexico advanced to the round of 16 by fortunate circumstance.
Mexican media referred to that time and praised him, saying, "Son Heung-min still has an image of being a player Mexican fans are grateful to. A world-class player with global skill."
As of 2026, Son Heung-min is with LAFC and has left a strong impression on Mexican clubs on the North American stage. His performance in the CONCACAF Champions Cup has been decisive. Son Heung-min recorded two assists against Toluca, leading to a 2-1 victory.
Also, in the match against Cruz Azul, Son Heung-min was involved in the team's 3-0 rout and helped control the flow of the game.
There is significance beyond simple statistics. Son Heung-min functions as the most threatening "consolidation" to Mexican teams, not only scoring but also controlling the tempo of the entire game. As his role has been emphasized to design both the beginning and end of attacks rather than finishing inside the box, local evaluations are changing.
The reactions of Mexican fans are also notable. Despite being an opponent player, applause and cheers for Son Heung-min continued in the stadium. The chant "Sonny, Sonny" even appeared. They showed interest in him as a superstar rather than as an opponent at the World Cup.
Respect continues among players as well. Cruz Azul captain Erick Lira reportedly gave a positive assessment of Son Heung-min's game management ability and attitude. That he is acknowledged even by a key player of the opposing team demonstrates his stature.
An interesting scene is also expected at the 2026 World Cup. In the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, Korea and Mexico will meet in Guadalajara, Mexico, on June 18.
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