"I liked everything except the goal conceded; it's even more disappointing," sighed Lee Young-pyo... On the fateful third match, he said, "We will secure points."

*This content was translated by AI.

Korean football legend Lee Young-pyo (48), a KBS commentator, expressed regret over South Korea's loss to Mexico.

The South Korean national football team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, lost 0-1 to Mexico in the second group stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup North American qualifiers (Group A) held at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, on the 19th (Korea time).

Earlier, South Korea had secured a 2-1 comeback victory against Czech Republic in the first match. A win against Mexico would have allowed them to clinch first place in the group and advance to the round of 32 early. However, despite a tight contest against host nation Mexico, they bowed their heads after conceding a decisive goal due to a painful defensive error.

As a result, South Korea recorded one win and one loss (3 points). While they maintained second place in the group, their advancement to the round of 32 has been postponed to the next match. Meanwhile, Mexico has won both matches (6 points), securing not only advancement to the round of 32 but also first place in Group A. Third-place Czech Republic and South Africa are currently tied with one draw and one loss (1 point each).

Judging solely by the match content, South Korea was not significantly outplayed. According to football statistics platform FootMob, South Korea held 58% ball possession against Mexico. The total number of shots was also higher for South Korea (9) compared to Mexico (8). Touches inside the opponent's penalty area were also more frequent for South Korea (11) than for Mexico (6).

South Korea played an even match against Mexico, who had the advantage of one-sided support from the host nation. However, a single mistake in the early second half decided the outcome.

In the fifth minute of the second half, a Mexican cross headed toward the South Korean penalty area. Goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu (FC Tokyo) rushed out to catch the airborne ball but collided with center-back Lee Ki-hyuk (Gangwon FC), causing him to lose possession. The ball became a loose ball in front of the goal.

At that moment, Mexican midfielder Luis Romo (Chivas), positioned within the South Korean defensive line, reacted calmly. Romo struck the ball with his right foot, sending it into the net. Although South Korea pushed forward in an attempt to equalize, they failed to open the Mexican goal. Ultimately, they lost 0-1 in a heartbreaking defeat.

Commentator Lee Young-pyo also found this scene the most regrettable. As the person responsible for the live broadcast on-site, he expressed his sorrow, saying, "Everything was good except for the single goal conceded, which makes it even more disappointing."

Nevertheless, it is not over yet. South Korea will face South Africa in the final group stage match on the 25th. Securing points in this match could significantly increase their chances of advancing to the round of 32.

Commentator Lee Young-pyo also sent his support to the Ko (CEO) team, stating, "The third match against South Africa is still ahead. I believe we will definitely secure points in the third match."

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*This content was translated by AI.