Mexico reached the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage with a perfect group record after a 3-0 win over Czech Republic. The home side won all three Group A matches and finished at the top of the table.
Mateo Chavez Garcia broke the deadlock in the 55th minute with a fine curled finish. Julian Quinones doubled the lead from close range after another strong display. Alvaro Fidalgo added the third goal late in the match to seal a comfortable win.
The result also gave fans an emotional moment. Veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa came on in the 78th minute to replace Raul Rangel. The 40 year old made his 153rd appearance for Mexico. It was another proud chapter in a career that has included six World Cup squads.
Ochoa received a loud ovation from the crowd. He had little work to do during his short time on the pitch. Still, the moment meant a lot to the fans, who wanted to celebrate one of the country’s greatest players.
Mexico will now stay in Mexico City for the round of 32. They will face one of the best third placed teams from Groups C, E, F, H or I on June 30. Scotland are the most likely opponents at this stage, although several other teams are still in the race.
If Mexico reach the last 16, they could meet England at the Azteca. The two sides have not faced each other at the World Cup since 1966.
Elsewhere in Group A, South Africa beat South Korea 1-0 to reach the knockout stage for the first time. They will face Canada in Los Angeles on June 28.
South Korea still have a small chance of going through as one of the best third placed teams. Czech Republic finished bottom of the group and are out of the tournament with one point.
The match was also affected by homophobic chants from some Mexico supporters during the first half. The referee did not stop the game. FIFA observers were present in the stadium, and the incident could lead to further action after the match.
Mexico also handed teenage midfielder Gilberto Mora his first World Cup start. The 17 year old became the youngest player to start a World Cup match for Mexico. He grew into the game after a slow start and played an important role in the build up to the first two goals before leaving the field to warm applause.
The home fans once again created a loud atmosphere at the Azteca. Their support helped Mexico finish the group stage with three wins, no goals conceded, and growing hopes of a deep run in the tournament.
