South Korea's first opponent in the group stage of the FIFA World Cup in North America this June will be either Denmark or Czechia. With the potential opponents now largely identified, head coach Hong Myung-bo is expected to test corresponding tactics in the upcoming friendly against Côte d'Ivoire.
Denmark thrashed North Macedonia 4-0 in the UEFA playoff semifinal for the World Cup, Group D path, held at Parken Stadium in Copenhagen on March 26 (local time). In the other semifinal played at the same time, Czechia edged Ireland 4-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw through 120 minutes of play at Fortuna Arena in Prague. Denmark and Czechia will now face off on March 31 at Czechia's home ground for the final World Cup qualification spot. The winner will secure a place in World Cup Group A and meet South Korea in the group stage's opening match.
Among the European playoff Group D nations, Denmark — ranked 21st in the FIFA rankings (South Korea is 22nd) — were as strong as expected. Should Denmark advance, Gustaf Isaksen, who scored two goals on the day, will be the primary player to watch. Isaksen plays in Italy's Serie A. He partnered with Cho Gue-sung in attack at Danish club Midtjylland before moving to Lazio in 2023. He has recorded four goals and one assist in 24 appearances for Lazio this season. For Czechia, goalkeeper Matěj Kovář (PSV Eindhoven) stood out after saving consecutive penalty kicks from Ireland's fourth and fifth takers.
