Mexico became the first team at the 2026 World Cup to secure their place in the knockout stage. In the second round group match, Javier Aguirre’s side defeated South Korea (1-0). With six points, the Mexicans ensured the top spot in Group A one round before the end of the group stage.
The outcome of the match was decided early in the second half by a gross defensive error from the Asian team. In the 50th minute, goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, while coming out to intercept, collided with his own defender Lee Ki-hyuk and dropped the ball. Mexican midfielder Luis Romo quickly reacted and struck accurately on the volley into the now empty net.
The South Koreans had a perfect chance to avoid defeat in the 87th minute. Forward Cho Gue-sung headed the ball from close range, but the home goalkeeper Raúl Rangel saved his team twice, first blocking the header and then stopping the ball almost on the goal line after the rebound.
Thanks to this victory, the Mexicans gained a certain advantage. According to the knockout bracket, the winner of Group A has the opportunity to play two rounds in Mexico City. As for the second qualifying spot, all three teams — South Korea, Czech Republic, and South Africa — still have chances to finish second.
WC 2026
Mexico – South Korea 1:0 (0:0)
Goals: Romo, 50 (1:0)
Mexico: Rangel; Sánchez H.; Álvarez E.; Vásquez J.; Lira; Romo (Vargas O., 71); Gallardo; Alvarado (Reyes, 80); Gutiérrez (Pineda O., 71); Jiménez R. (Jiménez S., 80); Quiñones J. (Huerta, 84)
Substitutions: Pineda O. (from 71); Vargas O. (from 71); Reyes (from 80); Jiménez S. (from 80); Huerta (from 84)
Reserves: Acevedo; Ochoa; Chávez M.; Chávez L.; Fidalgo; Mora J.; Vega A.; González Ar.; Martínez G.
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