The South Korea national football team lost 0-1 to Mexico in the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage. The team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, started with a win against the Czech Republic but now has 1 win and 1 loss, with 3 points. Former coach Jurgen Klinsmann pointed out the timing of substitutions as a key factor in the loss. Klinsmann appeared on ESPN FC and said that Mexico was more aggressive from the start. A single mistake led to the goal. In the 50th minute, Kim Seung-gyu tried to handle a cross, but his path was blocked by Lee Ki-hyeok, and he dropped the ball. Luis Romo waited for the loose ball and scored into the empty net. The score remained 0-1. Klinsmann said that Mexico maintained their speed and found space between the lines. Although they didn't have many clear chances, the momentum was on their side. However, after Mexico scored, they retreated, and Korea was able to get back into the game. Klinsmann also highlighted Korea's last 30 minutes. In one scene, Mexico goalkeeper Raul Langle's save prevented Korea from scoring. Jo Gyu-seong's header and Yang Hyun-jun's rebound shot were blocked in front of the goal line. The bench was a disappointing aspect. Klinsmann said that Korea should have made aggressive substitutions around the 60th minute. In reality, coach Hong Myung-bo brought in Oh Hyun-gyu, Jo Gyu-seong, Eom Ji-sung, Yang Hyun-jun, and Hwang Hee-chan, but it was too late to change the flow of the game after conceding. Mexico has already secured a spot in the knockout stage with 2 wins. Korea will face South Africa in the final group stage match. To keep their hopes of advancing alive, Korea must secure at least a point. If they lose, they will be pushed into a battle for third place or eliminated from the group stage. The South Korea national football team must win against South Africa to maintain their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage. Coach Hong Myung-bo must employ an aggressive strategy to achieve victory.