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⚽️ El Tri book spot in knockouts with win over Taegeuk Warriors⚽️ Player guide | Bracketology | Golden Boot | Mail Jonathan⚽️ Jonathan Wilson: From frustration to party time: Mexico ready for lift-offJavier Aguirre was forced into one change following the red card to Cesar Montes against South Africa. Montes is replaced in the centre of defence by Edson Alvarez. Aguirre has also switched right backs, with Israel Reyes coming in for Jorge Sanchez, and tinkered with his midfield where Alvarao Fidalgo loses out to Luis Romo.Mexico (4-1-2-3): 1 Rangel; 2 Sanchez, 4 Alvarez, 5 Vasquez, 23 Gallardo; 6 Lira; 26 Gutierrez, 7 Romo Fidalgo; 25 Alvarado, 9 Jimenez, 16 Quinones.Fans of the two countries have shared a warm relationship since the 2018 World Cup, when South Korea’s unexpected 2-0 victory over Germany in their final group game put Mexico into the last 16. Amid the celebrations in Mexico City, South Korea’s ambassador was carried shoulder-high along the street in front of the embassy as local fans chanted, “¡Coreano, hermano, ya eres mexicano!” – “Korean, brother, you are Mexican now!” The chant has been resurrected in Guadalajara, where South Korea beat Czechia 2-1 in their first group game. When a group of Korean fans visited the wrestling, the arena DJ played Gangnam Style to welcome them. Mexican social media has been flooded with videos of Guadalajarans and Koreans performing PSY’s horse dance together. Continue reading...
Eager to take center stage, Mexico and South Africa will face off in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. To that end, both teams aim to put on an offensive spectacle, fielding their top stars to secure victory. Mexico face South Africa in the opening clash of the 2026 World Cup. As one of CONCACAF’s strongest national teams, Javier Aguirre’s side arrive as clear favorites, looking to shine offensively, which remains their greatest strength. Unlike their opponents, Hugo Broos’ team arrive without being one of Africa’s top national teams and with significant attacking concerns. Nevertheless, both sides will field their strongest possible starting XI. Despite not having stood out in Africa, South Africa arrive at the World Cup as one of the most defensively solid teams. Acknowledging their attacking shortcomings, head coach Hugo Broos could opt for a more cautious approach, relying on Khulumani Ndamane and Nkosinathi Sibisi at the back. In addition, Lyle Foster could be tasked with providing the goals, as he has been a regular performer for Burnley. Javier Aguirre has managed to build a very balanced roster. Led by Julián Quiñones, Raúl Jiménez, and Álvaro Fidalgo, they aim to implement a more dominant style of play, relying on creativity in possession. In addition, Mexico have players such as Alexis Vega, Santiago Giménez, and Gilberto Mora who can adjust the game from the bench, making them clear favorites to secure the victory in the 2026 World Cup opener. Mexico confirmed lineup vs South Africa After shining in CONCACAF, Mexico arrive as one of the clear candidates to make an impact at the 2026 World Cup. To achieve this, head coach Javier Aguirre has a deep and competitive roster at his disposal, featuring players such as Santiago Giménez and Obed Vargas. In addition, they are placing their hopes in Julián Quiñones’ excellent goalscoring form as they look to advance to the knockout stages. Raul Jimenez #9 of Mexico celebrates after scoring a goal. Considering this, Mexico will lineup: Rangel; Reyes, Montes, Vásquez, Gallardo; Lira, Fidalgo, Gutiérrez; Alvarado, Jiménez, Quiñones. South Africa confirmed lineup vs Mexico South Africa are looking to spring a surprise at the 2026 World Cup. Relying on a defensive strategy, they are aiming to reach the knockout stages of the tournament for the first time in their history. To achieve this, head coach Hugo Broos could place his trust in Lyle Foster, who comes into the tournament after playing for Burnley and will be looking to lead the scoring efforts in an attempt to upset Mexico. With this in mind, South Africa will play with: Williams; Mudau, Sibisi, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mokoena, Shitole, Adams; Rayners, Foster.
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