Co-hosts Mexico became the first nation to qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea in Guadalajara on Thursday.
Luis Romo scored the decisive goal in the 50th minute after a costly error by South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, who collided with defender Lee Ki-hyuk while attempting to deal with a cross. Romo reacted quickest to slot home the winner.
Late in the match, Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel preserved the lead with a crucial double save as South Korea pushed for an equaliser.
Group A standings after two matches
Mexico now have six points from two matches and are guaranteed to finish above South Korea thanks to the head-to-head tiebreaker.
The earlier 1-1 draw between South Africa and Czechia also ensured that neither side can catch Mexico.
Mexico’s final group game is against Czechia, while South Korea face South Africa in a match that could decide second place in Group A.
Both those matches are scheduled for Thursday, 25 June at 03:00 (SA time).
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