▲ Lee Kang-in looks for a passing option while dribbling during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A match between South Korea and Mexico at Akron Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico, on June 18 (local time).
Lee Kang-in (Paris Saint-Germain) expressed his disappointment following the loss to Mexico despite playing the full match, vowing to deliver a better performance in the next game.
The South Korean national football team, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo, lost 0-1 to Mexico in their second Group A match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held at Akron Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico, on June 19 (KST).
South Korea, which secured a 2-1 comeback victory in their first match against the Czech Republic, could have clinched a spot in the Round of 32 and secured the top spot in the group with a win today.
However, following the one-goal defeat, the team will now look to secure their place in the Round of 32 in the final group stage match against South Africa on June 25.
Lee played the full 90 minutes today, forming an attacking trio alongside Son Heung-min (LAFC) and Lee Jae-sung (Mainz).
Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre, who previously managed Lee at Mallorca (Spain), emphasized in a press conference yesterday, "We can stop Lee Kang-in. We will prevent him from getting on the ball."
As expected, Lee faced intense pressure and marking from the Mexican side throughout the match today.
Nevertheless, he performed his role well, showcasing his signature ball control, ability to escape pressure, and flashes of brilliant passing.
After the match, Lee said, "We prepared our best to win, so it is very disappointing," but added, "It is already a past game, and we cannot change it. I hope the next match comes quickly so we can show a better performance and achieve a good result."
He also stated, "We need to do better in the remaining matches to ensure we reach the Round of 32, and then continue to show even better performances to advance to the Round of 16, the quarterfinals, and beyond."
Lee assessed the match by saying, "Mexico prepared very well, and it seemed like a match where both teams gave their all."
He specifically reflected, "After they scored the opening goal, they seemed more organized and focused on their defensive structure, which made it more difficult for us to attack."
Lee received a yellow card just four minutes into the match after stepping on Luis Romo's foot while attempting to win the ball, a situation that could have impacted his play for the remainder of the game.
"It was an unexpected yellow card, so it was difficult to be more aggressive afterward," Lee said, "but I did not feel intimidated."
Lee, who covered the pitch diligently—even dropping deep into his own half to receive the ball—added, "I always think about how I can be of maximum help to the team. I will prepare well to be a great help to the team in the next match as well."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.