Mexico became the first team to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage after beating South Korea 1-0 in Group A on Friday.
Luis Romo scored the winning goal early in the second half at Guadalajara Stadium. His strike secured Mexico’s second straight win and a place in the round of 32.
Mexico started strongly in front of its home fans. The team pressed high and controlled possession during the opening stages.
South Korea almost took the lead in the 16th minute. Lee Kang in played a fine pass to Son Heung min inside the box. Son lifted the ball past goalkeeper Rangel, but Edson Alvarez raced back and cleared it off the line.
Mexico created its best chance of the first half shortly after. Julian Quinones met a cross with a header, but Kim Seung gyu made a comfortable save.
The game slowed down after a lively start. Both teams struggled to create clear chances and the first half ended without a goal.
Mexico finally broke the deadlock five minutes after the restart.
Quinones delivered a cross into the penalty area and Raul Jimenez headed the ball into the air. Goalkeeper Kim Seung gyu came out to collect it but dropped the ball in front of Romo. The midfielder reacted quickly and fired into the net.
The goal lifted the Mexican crowd and put South Korea under pressure.
South Korea pushed forward in search of an equaliser. The Asian side brought on fresh attackers and spent long periods in possession.
Mexico nearly doubled its lead in the 75th minute. Jimenez controlled the ball well inside the box and forced Kim into another save.
Substitute Alexis Vargas also tested the goalkeeper late in the match with a powerful effort from outside the area.
South Korea’s best chance came in the 87th minute. Cho Gue sung met a cross with a close range header, but Rangel produced a brilliant save. The Mexican goalkeeper then stopped the rebound attempt as well.
The visitors had one final opportunity in stoppage time. Lee Kang in delivered a corner and Lee Han beom rose highest inside the box. However, his header drifted wide of the target.
Mexico held on through six minutes of added time and celebrated a vital victory.
The result moved Mexico to six points and confirmed its place in the knockout stage. South Korea remains on three points and must now fight for qualification in its final group match.
