Co-hosts Mexico became the first nation to secure a place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging South Korea 1-0 in Guadalajara.
Midfielder Luis Romo scored the game’s only goal five minutes into the second half, tapping into an empty net after South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu spilled the ball following a collision with defender Lee Gi-hyuk.
South Korea came close to equalising late in the match when Cho Gue-sung’s close-range header was brilliantly saved by Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel, who also denied Yang Hyun-jun on the rebound.
Earlier, captain Son Heung-min thought he had put South Korea ahead after chipping Rangel, but Edson Alvarez cleared the effort off the line before the offside flag was raised.
Mexico, who were booed by sections of their home fans after a lacklustre first-half display, nearly doubled their advantage in the 75th minute, but Raul Jimenez was denied from a tight angle by Kim Seung-gyu.
Substitute Obed Vargas also tested the South Korean goalkeeper late on with a powerful strike, forcing another impressive save.
The victory maintained Mexico’s perfect start to the tournament and confirmed Javier Aguirre’s side as Group A winners.
As group winners, Mexico will play both their Round of 32 match and a potential Round of 16 tie in Mexico City. They could face England in the last 16 if Thomas Tuchel’s side top their group and win their opening knockout fixture.
Despite the defeat, South Korea remain well placed to qualify for the knockout stage after their opening victory over the Czech Republic.
South Korea will face South Africa in Monterrey on Thursday, while Mexico take on the Czech Republic in their final Group A match at the same time in Mexico City.
Discover more from LN247
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
