Hong Myung-bo’s Warning: “No Such Thing as an ‘Easy Group’ at the World Cup—Mexico’s Home Advantage and 1,500m Altitude Are Real Challenges”

After completing the 2026 FIFA World Cup group draw and an on-site inspection, Republic of Korea (ROK) national football team coach Hong Myung-bo returned home on the 12th. Arriving at Incheon International Airport, Hong cautioned against the optimism of some who have labeled the group as 'manageable.' He identified 'altitude adaptation' and 'Mexico’s home advantage' as the most critical factors that could determine the team’s competitiveness in the finals.
Hong emphasized that the primary principle for selecting a base camp is 'scientific data.' Next June, ROK will play its first and second group stage matches at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico. This venue is situated at an altitude of 1,571 meters.
Hong stated, "We visited several candidate sites locally, but this is not a decision to be made on intuition alone." He added, "The key is for our players to maintain their performance without fatigue in an environment 1,500 meters above sea level. We will consult with experts and scientifically analyze factors such as climate, altitude adaptation, and travel distance before finalizing our base camp."
Regarding Mexico, the host nation and ROK’s opponent in Group A, Hong recalled memories of the 2002 FIFA World Cup and expressed strong caution. He said, "The advantage of being the home team is beyond imagination. Back in 2002, no one expected Korea to reach the semifinals. The passion of Mexican fans and the home advantage will be a tremendous burden for us."
This means there are variables at play that go beyond objective team strength. The match between ROK and Mexico has already drawn significant attention, ranking third in advance ticket sales among all group stage matches.
Hong also remained cautious about external assessments calling it the 'best group.' ROK has been grouped with Mexico, Republic of South Africa, and the European Playoff Winner.
Hong asserted, "Being placed in Pot 2 may make the draw look easy, but there is no such thing as an easy group at the World Cup." He warned that the lack of information about Republic of South Africa and the European Playoff Winner (expected to be Denmark), both considered potential targets for a win, could be more dangerous than anticipated.
He emphasized, "Success or failure will be determined not by luck, but by thorough preparation. It is most important for our players to stay injury-free and in top condition through the March friendlies and the May training camp." Based on the findings from this inspection, Hong Myung-bo and his staff plan to finalize a detailed World Cup roadmap.

jsi@fnnews.com Jeon Sang-il Reporter