Mexico beat South Korea to become first team into 2026 World Cup knockouts

Co-hosts Mexico have secured a place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a narrow 1-0 win over South Korea in Guadalajara.

The only goal of the match came five minutes into the second half when Mexico midfielder Luis Romo tapped into an empty net after South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu failed to deal with a loose ball following a collision with teammate Lee Gi-hyuk.

The first half produced few clear chances, with the home fans expressing frustration at halftime after a largely uninspiring attacking display.

South Korea came close before the break when captain Son Heung-min lifted the ball over goalkeeper Raul Rangel, but Edson Alvarez cleared it off the line. The effort was later ruled out for offside.

After going behind, Mexico grew into the game and almost doubled their lead in the 75th minute, but Raul Jimenez saw his tight-angle effort saved by Kim.

Substitute Obed Vargas also threatened late on, forcing an excellent diving save from Kim with a powerful long-range strike.

South Korea’s best chance came in the 87th minute when Cho Gue-sung’s close-range header was superbly saved by Rangel, who quickly reacted to deny Yang Hyun-jun on the rebound.

The win keeps Mexico’s perfect record intact and confirms Javier Aguirre’s side as Group A winners.

Mexico will stay in Mexico City for their round-of-32 fixture and a potential last-16 match, while South Korea remain in contention to progress and will face South Africa in their final group game. Mexico will meet the Czech Republic at the same time.