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Mexico and South Korea are both looking to maintain their perfect starts at the FIFA World Cup as they meet in their second Group A encounter.

A victory for either side would make them the first team to mathematically secure qualification for the Round of 32 in this year’s competition.

The co-hosts, Mexico, began their campaign in style by defeating South Africa in the opener, while the Taegeuk Warriors of South Korea overcame the Czech Republic to claim three points.

Guadalajara Stadium will once again be the venue as El Tri aim to continue their impressive form and strengthen their chances of progressing to the knockout stages.

Uruguayan official Gustavo Tejera has been appointed as the referee for this high-stakes fixture. The 38-year-old, who became a FIFA-approved referee in 2018—just four years after turning professional—brings considerable experience to the match.

Tejera, who works as an insurance broker in addition to his refereeing duties, has officiated 344 matches across various competitions, primarily within Uruguay. His portfolio also includes officiating in the Saudi Pro League and major international tournaments such as the Copa America and the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers.

Known for his firm and decisive approach, Tejera has issued an impressive 1,733 yellow cards in his career, averaging slightly more than five per game—an indication of his strict control on the field.

Assisting him for the Mexico vs South Korea match will be fellow Uruguayans Carlos Barreiro and Nicolás Taran, while Colombia’s Andres Rojas will take on the role of fourth official. In the event Tejera is unable to complete his duties, Rojas’s compatriot Alexander Guzman has been designated as the reserve assistant referee.

Kick-off is scheduled for 2:00 AM UK time, with the Guadalajara Stadium hosting its second World Cup fixture of the tournament.

Mexico enter this contest having recorded just one win in their last three matches at this stadium—a friendly against the United States in October 2024. However, their overall record against Asian sides at World Cups remains strong, with five victories to date, including four consecutive wins by margins of two goals or more.