Mexico and South Korea meet in Group A at 2am (UK time) on Friday as the second round of group-stage fixtures begins at the 2026 World Cup. Both teams opened with wins, setting up an intriguing clash in Guadalajara where goals look likely between two confident sides.
Back Son to get on the scoresheet
Son Heung-min remains South Korea’s main attacking outlet and looked lively throughout the win over Czechia. Although he didn’t score, he still registered six shots and produced 1.01 xG, underlining how close he came to finding the net. The 33-year-old also arrives at the tournament in strong form.
He scored twice in a 5–0 warm-up win over Trinidad and Tobago and added three shots in a brief appearance against El Salvador. He also netted 10 times during World Cup qualifying, and if he continues to find space in dangerous areas, he’ll back himself to add to his tally against Mexico.
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Hwang In-Beom to score or assist
Hwang In-beom played a key role in South Korea’s comeback win over the Czech Republic, producing both a goal and an assist. The midfielder showed excellent composure for the equaliser before turning provider for Oh Hyeon-gyu’s winner, underlining his importance in the final third.
The Feyenoord man also brings consistent attacking output. He averaged 0.12 Expected Goals per 90 minutes and 0.28 Expected Assists per 90 in the Eredivisie, while he recorded 0.14 assists per 90 during World Cup qualifying. Hwang also created 0.35 big chances per 90 in qualification and averaged 0.36 goal involvements per 90 at the Asian Cup. Given his recent form and underlying numbers, backing him to score or assist looks an appealing option.
Read our full Mexico vs South Korea match preview here
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