Gustavo Tejera has been appointed as referee for the World Cup Group A encounter between Mexico and South Korea — a match that could see one of the two sides become the first team to secure a place in the tournament's Round of 32.

Both nations arrive on the back of opening-round victories. Mexico, co-hosts of the tournament, defeated South Africa in their first fixture, while South Korea overcame the Czech Republic. A win for either side would mathematically guarantee their progression from the group stage.

The clash is scheduled to take place at Guadalajara Stadium, which hosts its second Group A match of the tournament.

Who is Gustavo Tejera?

Tejera, 38, is a Uruguayan referee who earned his FIFA licence in 2018 — just four years after turning professional. Away from football, he works as an insurance broker.

He has officiated in 344 matches to date, the majority of them in Uruguay, and has built up considerable experience across international competitions including the Copa America and CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers. He has also overseen matches in the Saudi Pro League.

Tejera has earned a reputation as a strict disciplinarian, having issued 1,733 yellow cards across his career — an average of just over five per match.

The full officiating team

Tejera will be assisted by fellow Uruguayans Carlos Barreiro and Nicolás Taran as his assistant referees. Colombia's Andres Rojas has been named as the fourth official, with compatriot Alexander Guzman serving as reserve assistant referee should Tejera be unable to continue.

The match kicks off at 2am UK time.

Mexico's record at Guadalajara Stadium

Mexico have won only one of their previous three matches at Guadalajara Stadium — a friendly against the United States in October 2024. Despite that modest home record, El Tri carry a strong overall record against Asian opposition at World Cups, claiming five victories in total, with their last four wins in that matchup all coming by a margin of two goals or more.