Mexico vs South Korea: time and where to watch the second 2026 World Cup match (June 18, Guadalajara)
Mexico's second 2026 World Cup match is against South Korea on Thursday, June 18 at 7:00 p.m. at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara. Time, where to watch free, how to get there, and how to plan your trip.
After the opening match against South Africa, Mexico plays its second 2026 World Cup game against South Korea on Thursday, June 18, this time at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara. It's a key Group A clash to move closer to the next round. Here's the full guide: time, where to watch, how to get to the stadium, and how to plan your trip to Guadalajara.
Match quick facts
- Match: Mexico vs South Korea (Group A)
- Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026
- Time: 7:00 p.m. (Central Mexico time)
- Venue: Estadio Akron, Zapopan / Guadalajara, Jalisco (capacity ~48,000)
- Free broadcast in Mexico: Televisa (Canal 5 and Las Estrellas), TV Azteca (Azteca 7 and the Azteca Deportes app), and ViX
What's at stake for Mexico
This is the second of Mexico's three group-stage matches. A good result after the opener leaves El Tri very close to the round of 16. South Korea, historically a fast, disciplined side, tends to trouble teams that don't press well. Estadio Akron, home of Chivas, is one of the country's most modern venues and promises a spectacular atmosphere.
Where to watch Mexico vs South Korea for free
Like all Mexico national team matches, this one airs on free-to-air TV:
- Televisa: Canal 5 and Las Estrellas.
- TV Azteca: Azteca 7 and, free via streaming, the Azteca Deportes app.
- ViX: streaming broadcast.
Without a ticket, you can watch it on a giant screen at Guadalajara's FIFA Fan Festival and other designated spots around the city, with a festive atmosphere, food, and music.
How to get to Estadio Akron
Estadio Akron is in Zapopan, west of the Guadalajara metro area, about 17 km from downtown. There's no direct metro, so the most practical options are Uber/Didi, taxi, or the special transport usually set up on match days. Given the road closures and the crowd, leave several hours early and consider arranging your return in advance.
Mexico's Group A schedule
- June 11: Mexico vs South Africa (Estadio Azteca, Mexico City) — opening match.
- June 18: Mexico vs South Korea (Estadio Akron, Guadalajara).
- June 24: Mexico vs Czechia (Estadio Azteca, Mexico City).
See the full guide in our 2026 World Cup section and the venue at Guadalajara — Estadio Akron.
Traveling to Guadalajara?
If you plan to experience the match in the city, organize your trip as soon as possible. These guides will help:
- Complete Guadalajara travel guide
- Flights to Guadalajara for the 2026 World Cup
- How much does it cost to go to the 2026 World Cup?
And to compare prices in real time, use our flights and hotels search tools.
Frequently asked questions
What time is Mexico vs South Korea?
Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 7:00 p.m., Central Mexico time, at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara.
Where can I watch it for free?
On free-to-air TV via Televisa (Canal 5 and Las Estrellas) and TV Azteca (Azteca 7 and its app), and streaming on ViX. Without a ticket, at Guadalajara's FIFA Fan Festival.
How do I get to Estadio Akron?
It's in Zapopan, about 17 km from downtown Guadalajara. The most practical option is Uber/Didi or taxi; there's no direct metro. Leave early due to road closures.
Who else does Mexico play?
Mexico is in Group A with South Africa (Jun 11), South Korea (Jun 18), and Czechia (Jun 24).