Co-hosts Mexico became the first team to qualify for the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup after a 1-0 victory over South Korea at the Guadalajara stadium on June 18. Luis Romo's goal early in the second half put Mexico top of Group A, ensuring they will play in the round of 32 on home soil.
The 50th-minute strike came after a mistake by South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seunggyu, who rushed out to catch a high ball but collided with a teammate, leaving the ball at Romo's feet. The Mexico midfielder simply tapped into an empty net to give his side the lead.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre said: 'It was a very tense match; we did not yield a single centimeter and fought for every ball as if it were the last. This was a game where whoever made a mistake would lose, and they made a mistake. This result is unforgettable.'
In the closing minutes, Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel made a brilliant double save to preserve the advantage. South Korea captain Son Heungmin was substituted in the 59th minute, and coach Myung-Bo Hong's team created few clear chances.
The win saw Mexico finish top of Group A, meaning they will play their round-of-32 match in Mexico City against a third-placed team from another group. South Korea are second with three points, while Czech Republic and South Africa each have one point. Mexico face Czech Republic in their final group match, while South Korea take on South Africa.
