Son Heung-min faces Mexico as Switzerland seek first win of the day
South Korea meet host Mexico at 4:00 a.m. on Thursday night into Friday in Group 1, with the spotlight on Son Heung-min. The former Tottenham and current Los Angeles FC winger will turn 34 in three weeks and, despite no longer being the same ruthless attacker and scoring less for his national team, remains South Korea’s central figure. Coach Hong Myung-bo still relies on him to guide the attack, create chances and deliver for teammates.
Son’s recent numbers point to a dip in sharpness. He has not scored in MLS since October 2025, and that drop was visible against Czechia, when he led all players with six shots but lacked accuracy and was replaced in the 69th minute. His substitute, Oh Eon-gyu, scored the winner. Even so, Son’s passing remains exceptional, and reports say he may play deeper against Mexico, behind the striker, to feed the forwards with smart balls. If that plan works, the hosts will need answers.
In the other Group 1 match, Czechia face South Africa at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. South Africa were poor in their opener against Mexico and will be missing two players suspended for red cards, Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane. On paper, a win should be enough for Czechia to advance.
Group 2 is level after both opening games ended 1-1. Switzerland take on Bosnia and Herzegovina at 10:00 p.m. on Thursday and cannot afford another setback if they want to ease the pressure. Earlier, at 1:00 a.m. into Friday, Canada host Qatar in Vancouver. Qatar arrive after making history by earning their first World Cup point with a dramatic draw against Switzerland, while Canada are chasing a first win after drawing Bosnia in round one.
