Kim Seung-gyu punches the ball away against Austria in March

Zapopan (Mexico) (AFP) - South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu has some making up to do after missing the birth of his first child because he is preparing for his fourth World Cup.

The 35-year-old stopper is hoping to add to his 86 caps when South Korea face the Czech Republic on Thursday’s opening day of the tournament in North America.

But it has come at a personal price, missing the birth of his daughter.

“I am really sorry that I couldn’t be with my wife for the birth,” the veteran told reporters in Mexico, where the Koreans play in the group stage.

“I want to bring home good results from here as my presents.”

Kim, who plays in Japan for FC Tokyo, is likely to get the nod ahead of Jo Hyeon-woo as coach Hong Myung-bo’s first choice in goal, Yonhap News Agency said.

“I’ve played at every World Cup thinking it could be my last,” Yonhap quoted Kim as saying.

“Given my age now, this one really does feel like my final one.”

South Korea also play South Africa and co-hosts Mexico in Group A.