Mexico booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 last 16 with a comfortable 2-0 win over Ecuador in the round of 32 on Wednesday, ending a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout victory.
The match at Estadio Azteca started an hour later than scheduled because of thunderstorms in Mexico City. The delay did not affect the hosts, who took control early and scored twice before halftime.
Julian Quinones opened the scoring before Raul Jimenez doubled Mexico’s lead around the half hour mark. The co-hosts dominated the opening half and comfortably protected their advantage after the break.
Ecuador saw more of the ball in the second half but struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined Mexico defence. Cesar Montes nearly added a third goal with a powerful header, but goalkeeper Hernan Galindez produced an excellent save.
Ecuador’s best opportunity came in the 75th minute when Kevin Rodriguez guided an effort just wide after a long ball caught the Mexico defence out.
The visitors finished the match with 10 men after defender Piero Hincapie was sent off deep into stoppage time following a VAR review for covering his mouth while speaking during a confrontation with Santiago Gimenez.
Mexico kept another clean sheet and have still not conceded a goal at the 2026 World Cup.
The victory sends Mexico into the last 16, where they will face either England or DR Congo at Estadio Azteca on Monday.
