Guadalajara: Co-hosts Mexico became the first team to secure a place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging South Korea 1-0 in Guadalajara.
Midfielder Luis Romo scored the decisive goal five minutes into the second half, capitalising on a costly error by South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu. The keeper spilled the ball following a collision with teammate Lee Gi-hyuk, allowing Romo to tap into an empty net.
South Korea pushed for an equaliser late in the match, with Cho Gue-sung coming closest in the 87th minute. His close-range header was brilliantly saved by Mexican goalkeeper Raul Rangel, who also denied Yang Hyun-jun on the rebound to preserve his side’s lead.
Back-to-back wins for Mexico! 🇲🇽#FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 19, 2026
Earlier, captain Son Heung-min thought he had given South Korea the lead after chipping Rangel, but Edson Alvarez cleared the ball off the line before the effort was ruled out for offside. Backed by a passionate home crowd that had voiced their frustration after a goalless first half, Mexico created several more chances after the break. Veteran striker Raul Jimenez was denied from a tight angle in the 75th minute, while substitute Obed Vargas forced Kim into another impressive save with a powerful late strike.
The victory maintained Mexico’s perfect record in Group A and confirmed Javier Aguirre’s side as group winners. As a result, the co-hosts will remain in Mexico City for both their round-of-32 match and a potential last-16 clash, where they could meet England if the European side tops its group and wins its opening knockout fixture.
Despite the defeat, South Korea remains well placed to qualify for the knockout stage after winning its opening match against the Czech Republic. The Koreans will face South Africa in their final group match, while Mexico will take on the Czech Republic simultaneously.
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