Co-hosts Mexico became the first nation to qualify for the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup with a narrow win over South Korea in Guadalajara.

Mexico midfielder Luis Romo was in the right place at the right time to tap into an empty net after goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu spilled the ball following a collision with his team-mate Lee Gi-hyuk in the 50th minute.

South Korea's best chance came in the 87th minute when Cho Gue-sung's close-range header was saved by Raul Rangel and the Mexico keeper was able to keep out Yang Hyun-jun's follow-up.

Earlier, captain Son Heung-min's had chipped Rangel before his effort was cleared off the line by Edson Alvarez although the former Tottenham forward was flagged offside.

Backed by a boisterous home support who had booed their team at half-time following a toothless first half, Mexico almost added a second in the 75th minute, but Raul Jimenez's effort from a tight angle was saved.

Substitute Obed Vargas also forced Kim into a fine diving save late on with a driven strike.

The result continued Mexico's 100% start at the World Cup and confirmed Javier Aguirre's side will advance as Group A winners.

That means the co-hosts will be in Mexico City for both their last-32 and potential last-16 tie, where they could face England if Thomas Tuchel's side win their group and first knockout match.

Despite their defeat, South Korea remain in a good position to also advance thanks to their opening-day win over the Czech Republic.

They face South Africa next on Thursday (02:00 BST) in Monterrey. Mexico take on the Czech Republic in their final group game at the same time in Mexico City.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Tags:

Mexico is the first team to reach the World Cup round of 32

Suggested for you

More Stories

Oil Prices Fall As Tankers Move Through Strait Of Hormuz

Liverpool Sign Victor Munoz, Offer £86m For Yan Diomande

Tuchel Throws Ball as England Players Relax After Win

Canada Beats Qatar 6-0, But Coach Marsch Is Worried About Kone Injury

Nico Williams Promises To Stay At Athletic Bilbao Until He Retires

Zimbabwe ‘Crocodile’ Leader Still in Charge, Wants to Extend His Time in Office

Discussion