MEXICO CITY — Mexico coach Javier Aguirre has guided the national team into the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first side in the tournament to secure advancement after a 1-0 victory over South Korea in Group A, according to FIFA match reports and Associated Press coverage.
The result, achieved on June 18 in Guadalajara, guaranteed Mexico a place in the Round of 32 with one group-stage match remaining. Luis Romo scored the decisive goal in the second half, while goalkeeper Raúl Rangel preserved the lead with a late save that denied South Korea an equalizer. Mexico’s second consecutive victory ensured top spot in Group A and prompted celebrations among home supporters across the country.
Aguirre, who returned for a third spell as Mexico’s head coach ahead of the tournament, has overseen a turnaround from the team’s disappointing 2022 World Cup campaign, when Mexico failed to advance from the group stage. The veteran coach, a former Mexico international, was previously in charge during the 2002 and 2010 World Cups and was appointed again as the country prepared to co-host the expanded 48-team tournament.
Mexico opened the competition with a victory over South Africa before defeating South Korea. Under the tournament’s revised format, the top two teams in each group and the best third-placed finishers advance to the knockout phase. Mexico’s six points after two matches made it the first nation to confirm progression.
Following the win over South Korea, players acknowledged the significance of the achievement but stressed that their focus remained on the remainder of the tournament. AP reported that Mexico’s squad celebrated with supporters inside the stadium after securing qualification. Goalkeeper Rangel’s late intervention proved decisive in preserving the victory. “Pure reaction,” Rangel said when describing the save, according to AP.
The qualification carries added significance for Mexico because the tournament is being co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada. Matches in Group A have been played on Mexican soil, drawing large crowds and intense public attention. Mexico is scheduled to remain in Mexico City for its Round of 32 match after clinching first place in the group.
While Mexico’s advancement has been welcomed by supporters, Aguirre has cautioned against complacency. Team officials have emphasized the importance of maintaining concentration as stronger opposition may await in the knockout rounds. Details regarding Mexico’s Round of 32 opponent remained unclear as group-stage play continued across the tournament.
As of June 22, Mexico had secured its place in the knockout phase and was preparing for its final Group A match before beginning the next stage of the World Cup.
