South Korean coach Hong Myung-bo on Wednesday described the appearance of a drone during a closed World Cup training session as «unfortunate» ahead of the crucial World Cup Group A match against fellow hosts Mexico.
Mexican security forces told Reuters the aircraft was intercepted above the training area on Tuesday because it was not registered. The intervention was part of a security operation carried out in the World Cup host cities and involved the coordination of thousands of personnel and advanced technology.
The heightened measures come as authorities try to boost security in Jalisco, a state that has suffered high levels of insecurity caused by violent criminal groups competing for drug trafficking routes and other crimes.
While the stoppage occurred just as the squad was about to begin sensitive tactical work, Hong noted that the team’s primary preparations remained intact.
“It didn’t have a significant impact on us, but as we were preparing for the match, that was the most important timing, so what happened was unfortunate,” Hong told a news conference.
South Korea will be looking to build on the momentum of its 2-1 comeback win over the Czech Republic to secure a firm grip at the top of the group. The drone incident added a layer of tension to Thursday’s high-stakes match at Guadalajara Stadium, where Mexico will look to capitalize on its status as the tournament’s co-hosts.
With a huge home crowd expected to create a partisan atmosphere, Hong stressed that his players must maintain their composure to neutralize the home advantage.
“My players have been through matches like this before, so tomorrow will be different,” Hong said. “We have to control the rhythm and flow of the match and then the timing will be important to consider.”
Published on June 18, 2026
