Even Hong Myung-bo is keeping a close watch... Mexican coach Javier Aguirre declares war on South Africa: "Host nation pressure? It's actually a privilege." Will he fire the opening salvo?

*This content was translated by AI.

Javier Aguirre (68), head coach of Mexico, the co-host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, expressed strong confidence ahead of the opening match to be held at home.

Mexico will face South Africa in the first Group A match of the World Cup group stage at 4 a.m. on the 12th (Korean time). This marks the official opening of the 39th-day World Cup journey.

Global sports specialist ESPN reported on the 11th that "Coach Aguirre, enjoying the privileges of the host nation, willingly accepted the pressure of Mexico's opening match."

While Mexico objectively ranks ahead of other nations in terms of team strength, the heavy pressure of playing the opening match as the host nation is seen as a variable. However, Aguirre, who is leading Mexico to the World Cup stage for the third time in his career, remained calm. He stated, "It's fantastic. The fact that I can stand in this position itself is a privilege. I believe I am enjoying a privilege," positively accepting the burden.

He also expressed firm trust in the squad. Coach Aguirre said, "I have not yet discussed the starting 11 with the players. I have no doubts about whoever starts," and emphasized, "Whoever plays will perform very well."

In particular, he vowed to directly break through the 'jinx of no wins in the World Cup opening match' that Mexico has been facing. He said, "We must break that trend. I will share this with the players. We now have another good reason to go out to the field and definitely win," burning with determination.

On the other hand, Hugo Broos, the South Africa coach facing Mexico, anticipated a tough battle. He said, "It is expected to be a very difficult match," and "We must show our best skills," not letting down his guard.

Meanwhile, the South Korean national football team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, is in Group A along with Mexico and South Africa. South Korea will play its first match against the Czech Republic at 11 a.m. on the 12th, followed by matches against Mexico on the 19th and South Africa on the 25th.

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*This content was translated by AI.