World Cup Group A Matchday 3 Preview: Mexico Rotates to Let Czech Republic Advance, South Korea Battles Past South Africa to Qualify

The two third-round Group A fixtures of the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, start at 9:00 AM Beijing time on June 25: Czech Republic takes on Mexico, while South Africa meets South Korea.

After two rounds in Group A, Mexico has won both matches with 6 points, securing the top spot; South Korea sits second with 3 points, the Czech Republic third with 1 point, and South Africa last with 1 point (trailing the Czech Republic by one goal difference).

Czech Republic vs Mexico: The Czech Republic is ranked 43rd in the world, with a total squad value of €188 million, an average age of 27.2, and seven players from Europe's top five leagues; Mexico is ranked 12th, with a squad value of €192 million, an average age of 27.5, and five players from the top five leagues.

This match is unusual and cannot be previewed as a regular contest. The host Mexico has already secured the group lead, so they will rotate heavily against the Czech Republic—resting key players to avoid injuries, allowing those with yellow cards to clear them, and giving substitutes playing time. Conversely, the Czech Republic must give their all and take all three points to keep their hopes alive; among the 12 groups, the eight best third-placed teams can also advance, and a third-placed team with 4 points is very likely to qualify. Mexico will go through the motions, while the Czech Republic will fight desperately. In summary, this match is expected to see the Czech Republic beat Mexico and claim three points, as a draw would be meaningless for them.

The two teams have never faced each other before.

Injury and suspension situation: Czech Republic hasJurašek; Mexico (none).

South Africa vs South Korea: South Africa is ranked 61st in the world, with a total squad value of €49.25 million, an average age of 26.3, and only one player from the top five leagues; South Korea is ranked 24th, with a squad value of €139 million, an average age of 27.5, and five players from the top five leagues.

This match will be a tough battle, as both teams will fight hard to advance from the group. Overall, South Korea is stronger than South Africa, but Asian star Son Heung-min has been in poor form in the first two World Cup matches. If Son fails to improve his performance and continues to start every game, it will weaken South Korea's attacking power. South African players are very fast, while South Korean players are known for their endurance; this will be a contest of squad depth and physical fitness. A draw could still see South Korea through, but South Africa must attack aggressively. If South Africa pushes forward, South Korea will have more space for counterattacks. Considering South Korea's squad depth and physical advantages, as well as the suspension of key South African players, this match is expected to see South Korea beat South Africa and qualify as group runners-up.

The two sides have never faced each other.

Injury and suspension situation: South Africa hasMokwana (suspended due to two yellow cards) and Zwane (sent off in the first round, banned by FIFA for three matches); South Korea (none).