*This content was translated by AI.
Hwang In-beom (Feyenoord), who led a dramatic comeback with one goal and one assist in the first match against the Czech Republic, vowed to carry that momentum to defeat Mexico and secure an early spot in the Round of 32.
Hwang In-beom, a key midfielder for the South Korean national football team, attended the official pre-match press conference held at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, at 3:30 p.m. local time on the 17th. He stated, "Fortunately, we secured a comeback victory in the first match and concluded on a happy note. We still have a tough match against Mexico ahead. The players have tried to forget the first game and are now focusing on preparing for the second match."
Hong Myung-bo's team secured their first win by defeating the Czech Republic 2-1, thanks largely to Hwang In-beom's one-goal, one-assist solo performance. Mexico, which had already crushed South Africa 2-0 in the opening match, is also showing formidable strength. Notably, in this tournament, the head-to-head record takes precedence in determining group stage standings, meaning the winner of this matchup is highly likely to secure first place in Group A. South Korea will face Mexico in the group stage's second match here at 10 a.m. Korean time on the 19th.
Hwang In-beom said, "The Czech Republic and Mexico are completely different teams, and our preparation processes differed as well. It remains a fact that both matches are important. Mexico is a team with strong pressing. It will be crucial for our team to manage the game collectively. We also focused heavily on preparing for transition speed."
Regarding the presence of his close friend Kim Min-jae, he said, "Everyone knows Min-jae's importance without me having to say it. It will be important to control Mexico as a team, not as an individual. Players beside him must also support him well for Min-jae to shine. I trust not only Min-jae but all the players." He expressed strong trust in his teammates.
Local Mexican media have cited South Korea's midfield as a strength. Addressing this, Hwang In-beom said, "I am grateful for such an evaluation as a player, but I hope people focus more on me. There are many good players on the team besides me. Those players will get their chances. While individual performance is important, the key is for the team's preparations to come through well."
He added, "I believe the strikers will make the most of their opportunities. We will distribute many good passes to create situations that lead to goals."
He also mentioned Santiago Giménez (AC Milan), with whom he once played for the same club. Hwang In-beom said, "He was a great striker. My only regret is that we couldn't play together for a long time. I know he is an excellent player. He can advise defenders on what to watch out for. If Santiago Giménez plays in tomorrow's match, I hope he shows a great performance." He offered his well-wishes.
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*This content was translated by AI.
