* Translated by AI

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'Mexico's 17-year-old soccer prodigy' Lee Kang-in unexpectedly mentioned, "World-class... Looking forward to facing a great player" [World Cup]

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Park Geondo

*This content was translated by AI.

The Mexico national team held training at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, on the 17th, one day before their 2026 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Group A match against South Korea. Gilberto Mora is seen responding to media interviews before the training session. /Photo=Chief correspondent Kim Jin-kyung
The Mexico national team held training at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, on the 17th, one day before their 2026 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Group A match against South Korea. Gilberto Mora is seen responding to media interviews before the training session. /Photo=Chief correspondent Kim Jin-kyung

Gilberto Mora (Tijuana), a 17-year-old midfielder hailed as the future of Mexican soccer, expressed his strong determination ahead of the match against South Korea.

On the afternoon of the 17th (local time), Gilberto Mora met with reporters at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico. Regarding the recent intense interest in him, he calmly stated, "Actually, I don't really look for those kinds of stories that talk about me." He added, "Whenever I happen to hear such words, I always focus only on myself and enjoy soccer. I just try to live in the present."

He continued, "When given the opportunity to play, I simply enjoy the match and show my true self on the field. I want to maintain this state and prove my soccer in the future. I will pour out everything I have to help the team win."

This match is expected to hinge on the battle in the midfield. Regarding South Korea's tactics and their ability to control the midfield, Mora said, "Of course, I have completed my analysis of the opposing team." He evaluated, "I am well aware that South Korea is a very excellent rival. They possess players with very high skills not only in the midfield but across the entire lineup of attack and defense."

The Mexico national team held training at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, on the 17th, one day before their 2026 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Group A match against South Korea. Gilberto Mora is seen responding to media interviews before the training session. /Photo=Chief correspondent Kim Jin-kyung
The Mexico national team held training at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, on the 17th, one day before their 2026 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Group A match against South Korea. Gilberto Mora is seen responding to media interviews before the training session. /Photo=Chief correspondent Kim Jin-kyung

He also emphasized, "That is why Mexico must play a tactically perfect match. We must enter the field and play our own soccer, showcase the plays we are best at, and complete a good game to secure victory."

The highlight of the interview that day was the mention of facing South Korea's star player Lee Kang-in (Paris Saint-Germain). Both players share the commonality of debuting on the professional stage at a very young age.

Regarding Lee Kang-in, Mora praised, "Lee Kang-in is truly an amazing player in my eyes. I am well aware that he is a player with tremendous skill and quality, and he has already proven this in every match he plays."

Mora, who made an early debut and will face a top player as an opponent, showed both excitement and confidence. He stated, "Like Lee Kang-in, I also started my career at a young age, but I will strive to show my best skills in tomorrow's match." He added, "I will go onto the field and enjoy soccer. Whatever playing time I am given, I intend to enjoy it. Facing a great player like Lee Kang-in is an exciting thing. I always enjoy clashing and fighting against the world's best players."

The South Korea national soccer team held training at Chivas Verde Valley in Guadalajara, Mexico, on the 17th, one day before their 2026 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Group A match against Mexico. Players, including Lee Kang-in, are seen training with bright expressions. /Photo=Chief correspondent Kim Jin-kyung
The South Korea national soccer team held training at Chivas Verde Valley in Guadalajara, Mexico, on the 17th, one day before their 2026 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers Group A match against Mexico. Players, including Lee Kang-in, are seen training with bright expressions. /Photo=Chief correspondent Kim Jin-kyung

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*This content was translated by AI.

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