Former FIFA World Cup winner Lee Young-pyo, now a television commentator, predicts South Korea will finish second in Group A at this year’s tournament. South Korea are drawn against Czechia, South Africa and Mexico, with Mexico one of the tournament’s three co-host countries. Under the competition format, the top two teams from each of the 12 groups advance to the knockout stage, along with the eight best third-place teams.
Speaking during a visit to South Korea’s training facility near Guadalajara, Lee says Mexico is likely to top Group A, citing Mexico’s recent performance and the advantage of playing at home. He then forecasts South Korea will take second place, which he describes as a strong start to the tournament.
Lee emphasizes that South Korea’s first match, against Czechia scheduled for Thursday, is important. He says securing three points in the opener is “crucial” for determining the team’s overall outcome in the group, and that failing to win would increase pressure in later matches.
