South Korea legend predicts second-place group stage finish at FIFA World Cup 2026
Lee Young-pyo played for South Korea for 12 years.
Former FIFA World Cup hero Lee Young-pyo has predicted his nation’s fate in the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage matches. He emphasised where they will finish in the group.
South Korea will begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Czechia. They will later face Mexico and South Africa in Group A fixtures.
With 48 nations competing in the tournament, the Asian Tigers will hope to reach the knockout stage this summer. Their legend has predicted where they will finish in the group stage.
Legend predicts South Korea’s World Cup 2026 group fate
During his visit to the Asian Tigers’ training facility, Lee was questioned about how South Korea would perform this time in the tournament. He said:
“Mexico will likely win Group A, considering their recent performance and home advantage. And it’s highly likely that Korea will finish second. And that would be a very good start.”
He also explained why his nation will be the favourites to win their opening FIFA World Cup game against Czechia.
Lee Young-pyo commented: “Overcoming pressure is part of the equation. Since Czechia are playing in their first World Cup in 20 years, their players are all new to this, and our players are far more experienced.”
South Korea undoubtedly don’t have an easy route to the World Cup knockout stage. They are facing all three tough nations. Moreover, they shouldn’t underestimate their opponents in the group stage, as all of them will pose a big challenge.
However, they are among the most experienced nations in the competition. Considering Czechia are making their first appearance since 2006, and South Africa are featuring for the first time since 2010, the Asian Tigers will have a significant advantage in their group matches.
But this is the World Cup, anything can happen. Head coach Hong Myung-bo’s side will have to be prepared for every game.
Which group are South Korea in?
They are in Group A.
When is their first group game?
on 12 June, 7:30 am IST.
For how many years did Lee Young-pyo play for the national team?
For 12 years, from 1999 to 2011.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.