Co-hosts Mexico secured their place in the Round of 32 with a hard-fought 1-0 win over South Korea in Guadalajara, becoming the first team to confirm knockout-stage qualification at the 2026 World Cup.
Luis Romo struck the only goal early in the second half, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up between South Korea’s goalkeeper and a defender to slot home from close range. The result followed Mexico’s opening 2-0 victory over South Africa, lifting Javier Aguirre’s side to six points and top spot in Group A with one group game remaining.
The first half offered little goalmouth action, but Mexico grew sharper after the interval. South Korea pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages, with goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu denying Raul Jimenez before Mexico’s own keeper, Raul Rangel, produced a stunning late double save to protect the clean sheet.
The win marks Mexico’s first run of three straight World Cup victories in the team’s history. They will next face a third-placed qualifier from one of several groups in the Round of 32, set for Mexico City on June 30.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum congratulated the team on social media, calling the win a source of pride for the nation.
Mexico are co-hosting the 48-team tournament alongside the United States and Canada, with the final scheduled for July 19 in New York/New Jersey.
