"Son Heung-min will score against Mexico," Lee Young-pyo's reasoned belief... "Ranked 5th overall, the only one in his 30s"

*This content was translated by AI.

As the South Korean national football team prepares for a fateful match against Mexico in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, KBS commentator Lee Young-pyo expressed firm trust in captain Son Heung-min.

On the 18th (Korean time), Lee visited the Chivas Verde Valley training ground in Mexico to observe the final training session ahead of South Korea's Group A second match under coach Hong Myung-bo. After the victory against the Czech Republic, he had encouraged Son, saying, "I think you'll score this time. You were definitely threatening." This time as well, he conveyed his unwavering belief. Lee explained, "In the Czech Republic match, 40% of South Korea's shooting opportunities came from Son Heung-min. According to game data, Son's top instantaneous speed was 35 km/h, ranking 5th overall among all players participating in this World Cup. Players ranked 1st through 4th were all in their early 20s, while Son Heung-min was the only one in his 30s." He added, "He remains the most threatening presence in the national team in terms of physicality and experience. He could have two or three decisive chances in the Mexico match and is one of the players with the highest probability of scoring."

Regarding the Mexico match, which will effectively decide the group winner, Lee predicted, "Both teams will play cautiously in the first half." He diagnosed, "South Korea is unlikely to recklessly deploy many players for attack, and Mexico will be wary of overextending their offense and leaving space behind." He concluded that the match will be decided in the second half by substitutions and tactical changes, determining which team is more sophisticated and better at converting defensive mistakes into goals. He identified Julian Quiñones and Raul Jimenez as players to watch.

Lee evaluated, "Quiñones is a threatening attacker who possesses both speed and dribbling ability," and "Jimenez is also a player equipped with rich experience and a keen scoring sense." He emphasized, "If you can control these two, you can block a significant portion of Mexico's attack." He also cited the one-sided support from home fans and the absence of key center-back Cesar Montes as variables. "At over 190cm tall, if he is absent, South Korea can dominate aerial balls. We expect good opportunities in set-piece situations such as free kicks and corner kicks."

Meanwhile, Lee, who is staying in Mexico to broadcast the group stage matches, is demonstrating explosive popularity with a deluge of photo and autograph requests wherever he goes. Photos released by KBS showed long lines of fans waiting to take commemorative pictures with Lee and Lee signing a Taegeukgi (South Korean flag), drawing attention. His enduring presence, reminiscent of the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup quarterfinal miracle, was felt once again. Additionally, images were released showing Lee immersed in broadcast preparation with a tablet and various materials spread out on his desk, raising expectations for his "reliable, premium commentary." As the "World Cup representative broadcaster" KBS continues to lead in differentiated broadcasting and viewership ratings, it will visit viewers this time with vivid on-site coverage, sharp analysis, and passionate support during the Mexico match.

The South Korean national football team, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo, will face Mexico in the group stage second match at 10 a.m. on the 19th. KBS will broadcast live from the local site on 2TV starting at 9 a.m., with caster Nam Hyun-jong and commentator Lee Young-pyo. Prior to that, a pre-show hosted by "football goddess" Jang Ye-won will air from 8 a.m. Singer Kim Jong-kook, Apink's Oh Ha-young, coach Seol Ki-hyeon, and commentator Cho Won-hee will appear to interestingly present predictions for the Mexico match and various viewing points.

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*This content was translated by AI.