Mexico Secures Spot in World Cup Last 32 with Win Over South Korea

Mexico Becomes First Team to Advance to World Cup Knockout Stage

Mexico continued their strong start at the 2026 World Cup by clinching a narrow 1-0 victory over South Korea in Guadalajara, making them the first country to qualify for the tournament's last 32.

Match Highlights

The decisive moment came in the 50th minute when Luis Romo capitalized on a mistake from South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu. After Kim collided with teammate Lee Gi-hyuk, the ball spilled loose, allowing Romo to tap it into an empty net.

South Korea pushed hard late in the game. In the 87th minute, Cho Gue-sung directed a close-range header that was brilliantly saved by Mexico’s keeper Raul Rangel. Yang Hyun-jun’s follow-up shot was also denied by Rangel. Earlier, captain Son Heung-min had chipped the ball over Rangel, but his shot was cleared off the line by Edson Alvarez, though Son was flagged offside.

The home crowd in Guadalajara showed frustration at halftime due to a quiet first half, but they roared back as Mexico nearly doubled the lead in the 75th minute. Raul Jimenez's attempt from a tight angle was saved, and substitute Obed Vargas later forced another fine save from Kim with a driven strike.

Group Standings and Next Matches

This win kept Mexico’s perfect record intact and secured their place as Group A winners. They will play their round of 32 and possibly round of 16 matches in Mexico City. If England tops their group and wins their first knockout game, Mexico could face them next.

Despite the loss, South Korea remains well placed to progress after their opening day victory against Czech Republic. Their next match is against South Africa on Thursday at 02:00 BST in Monterrey, while Mexico faces Czech Republic at the same time in Mexico City.