Mexico set to change starting XI against South Korea
Facing the suspension of César Montes and knowing that the opponent will be the group’s toughest challenge, ‘El Vasco’ is exploring options.
With just under a week until the Mexican national team begins its second matchday of the 2026 World Cup, Javier Aguirre is working to fine-tune the starting eleven he will field against South Korea, acknowledging that the Asian side appears to be the toughest challenge in the group stage.
It is worth remembering that towards the end of the match against South Africa, César Montes was sent off and, due to the mandatory one-match suspension, becomes the first enforced change in the lineup. In addition, Gibrán Araige of TUDN has reported that a couple more adjustments are being considered for what ‘Vasco’ will present next Thursday in Guadalajara.
Mexico’s expected line-up against South Korea
Goalkeeper: Raúl ‘Tala’ Rangel
Defenders: Jorge Sánchez, Edson Álvarez, Johan Vásquez, Jesús Gallardo
Midfielders: Erik Lira, Gilberto Mora, Álvaro Fidalgo
Forwards: Roberto ‘Piojo’ Alvarado, Raúl Jiménez, Julián Quiñones
The confirmed change would see ‘El Machín’ step in for the suspended Montes in the defensive line, while Israel Reyes would also drop out of the starting XI to make way for Jorge Sánchez at right-back. The adjustment is reportedly designed to cope with the pace of the South Korean attack, something the PAOK defender in Greece is seen as better equipped to handle.
Finally, the most notable change would be the inclusion of Gilberto Mora from the start. The 17-year-old talent would replace Brian Gutiérrez in midfield, who did not have his strongest performance against South Africa. In that match, however, the player who initially came on for the Chivas midfielder was Luis Chávez.
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