Kim Seung-gyu

Kim Seung-gyu had a night to forget in Guadalajara on 18 June 2026. The South Korea goalkeeper leapt to collect a cross but allowed the ball to spill, dropping it directly at the feet of Mexico's Luis Romo, who converted the gift into a 50th-minute volley that ended the match 1-0 and sent Mexico into the knockout rounds . South Korea, on one point after two games, Left Group A wide open.

Kim, 35, plays for FC Tokyo and is one of South Korea's most experienced goalkeepers, in his fourth World Cup having debuted at Brazil 2014. He made his name as second choice in 2018 before claiming the starting role at Qatar 2022. He has more than 80 international appearances and told reporters before the tournament that he considers 2026 to be his last World Cup.

Kim had been South Korea's standout performer in their opening match against Czechia, making a series of crucial saves. The error against Mexico underlined the razor-thin margins at this level, and Left South Korea needing a win in their final group game to progress.