South Korea and the Czech Republic will begin their FIFA World Cup Group A campaign in two hours when they meet at Estadio Akron in Mexico.
The match could prove crucial in the race for qualification from a group that also includes co-hosts Mexico and South Africa.
South Korea, who are ranked 25th in the world, are making their 11th consecutive World Cup appearance after an unbeaten qualifying campaign under coach Myung-Bo Hong.
However, recent friendly defeats to Austria and Ivory Coast have raised questions about their ability to challenge stronger opposition.
Captain Son Heung-min and playmaker Lee Kang-in are expected to lead the Taeguk Warriors' attack.
The Czech Republic return to the World Cup for the first time since 2006 and arrive in strong form, having lost just two of their last 19 internationals. They are ranked 40th in the world.
Coach Miroslav Koubek’s side qualified through play-off wins over Ireland and Denmark, with striker Patrik Schick and captain Ladislav Krejci among their key players.
Neither side has previously won the FIFA World Cup. South Korea's best finish was fourth place in 2002, while the Czech Republic's predecessor, Czechoslovakia, were runners-up in 1934 and 1962.
With Mexico defeating South Africa 2-0 in the opening match, both teams will be eager to make a positive start in what is expected to be a tight contest.
The match kicks off at 2pm.
In tomorrow's matches, co-host Canada takes on Bosnia and Herzegovina at 7am while USA takes on Paraguay at 1pm.
Source: beIN SPORTS
