Mexico First Nation to Secure Spot in 2026 World Cup Round of 32

Mexico Clinch Early Qualification for Knockout Stage

The 2026 World Cup co-hosts, Mexico, secured their place in the last 32 with a narrow 1-0 win over South Korea in Guadalajara. This victory made them the first team to advance from the group stages.

Key Moment Decides the Match

The sole goal came just after halftime when midfielder Luis Romo capitalized on a mistake by South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu. After a collision with teammate Lee Gi-hyuk, Kim spilled the ball, allowing Romo to tap it into an empty net in the 50th minute.

South Korea's Close Calls

South Korea pushed late in the game, with Cho Gue-sung’s header at close range saved by Mexican keeper Raul Rangel in the 87th minute. Rangel also denied Yang Hyun-jun’s follow-up attempt. Earlier, captain Son Heung-min had chipped the ball over Rangel but was ruled offside after his effort was cleared off the line by Edson Alvarez.

Despite loud home support that booed Mexico at halftime due to a lackluster first half, the hosts nearly doubled their lead in the 75th minute when Raul Jimenez’s shot from a tight angle was stopped. Substitute Obed Vargas tested Kim again with a powerful strike late in the match.

Group A Standings and Next Matches

Mexico continue their perfect record in the tournament, guaranteeing them the top spot in Group A. Their upcoming knockout matches, including the last 32 and potentially the round of 16, will be played in Mexico City. They might face England if the European side wins their group and initial knockout match.

South Korea, despite this defeat, remain well positioned to advance thanks to their opening victory against Czech Republic. Their next fixture is against South Africa on Thursday at 02:00 BST in Monterrey. Mexico will play their final group match against Czech Republic simultaneously in Mexico City.