FIFA World Cup 2026: Mexico Beat South Korea 1-0, Become First Team to Reach Knockout Stage

New Delhi

Mexico became the first team to qualify for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea in their Group A clash at the Akron Stadium in Guadalajara.

Mexico enjoyed greater possession from the start of the match, although South Korea gradually settled into the contest and created attacking opportunities of their own. Both sides displayed an aggressive approach, but neither could break the deadlock in the first half as the defenses stood firm.

The breakthrough came shortly after the restart. In the 50th minute, Luis Romo scored the only goal of the match. He latched onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Gutiérrez and calmly slotted his shot into the back of the net, sending the home supporters into celebration.

South Korea responded with several attacking moves in search of an equalizer, but they were unable to penetrate Mexico’s resolute defense. In the closing moments, South Korea came agonizingly close to scoring, but Mexican goalkeeper Rangel produced a brilliant double save to preserve his side’s lead.

With the victory, Mexico secured top spot in Group A and became the first nation to book a place in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Mexico have now won their opening two matches without conceding a goal. They also became only the second host nation in World Cup history to achieve this feat, after France accomplished it during the 1998 FIFA World Cup on home soil.

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