Washington: South Korea men's football head coach Hong Myung-bo expressed uncertainty about predicting the best possible scenario for his team at the upcoming draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Hong arrived at Dulles International Airport, near Washington, to attend the draw, which is scheduled for noon Friday at the Kennedy Center.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Hong remarked upon his arrival that participating in the World Cup is a significant honor, both personally and professionally. He previously coached South Korea at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and has a rich history as a player in the 1990, 1994, 1998, and 2002 tournaments. He noted that the World Cup journey would truly begin after the draw in the coming days.

The 48 participating nations have been placed into four pots of 12 based on the latest FIFA rankings. The three co-host countries-United States, Canada, and Mexico-have been automatically placed into Pot 1. South Korea, ranked No. 22, finds itself in Pot 2, ensuring they will avoid other top-20 nations during the group stage, including Croatia, Morocco, Colombia, and Japan.

Pot 1 features formidable teams such as defending champion Argentina and perennial powerhouses like Spain, France, and Brazil. Meanwhile, Pot 3 includes Norway, with their star striker Erling Haaland, and Italy could join Pot 4 if they advance through the European playoffs.

In a favorable draw scenario, South Korea might face Canada, South Africa, and New Zealand. However, Hong refrained from making any predictions, acknowledging the uncertainty of the draw. He also mentioned plans to visit venues for South Korean matches and finalize the team's base camp after the draw.