Mexico set to change starting XI against South Korea

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.

Take sports with you!

Download the AS app to receive instant alerts and set in MiZona what you want to read, follow your teams and check their matches. Download it here. Are you also looking to license content? Click here