GUADALAJARA, Mexico — Co-hosts Mexico became the first team to secure a place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating South Korea 1-0 in a Group A match on Thursday, advancing with one group-stage game remaining.
Midfielder Luis Romo scored the only goal of the match early in the second half at Guadalajara Stadium, capitalizing on a mistake by South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu. The victory gave Mexico six points from two matches and guaranteed top spot in Group A, ensuring progression to the Round of 32 under the tournament’s expanded 48-team format.
Mexico entered the match after opening the tournament with a 2-0 victory over South Africa, while South Korea had begun its campaign with a win over the Czech Republic. The result left South Korea on three points and still in contention for qualification ahead of its final group match. Czechia and South Africa played to a 1-1 draw earlier on Thursday.
The match was closely contested during the opening half, with neither side creating many clear opportunities. Mexico increased the pressure after the break and took the lead in the 50th minute. South Korea pushed forward in the closing stages, but Mexican goalkeeper Raúl Rangel preserved the lead with a series of late saves, including a crucial double stop in the final minutes.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre downplayed the significance of the early qualification, saying the team remained focused on its broader objectives in the tournament. “Success will depend on where we finish,” Aguirre said after the match, according to Reuters. He nevertheless praised his players for showing greater patience and maturity than in their opening fixture.
The achievement marked Mexico’s first time winning a World Cup group since the 2002 tournament, which was also managed by Aguirre. It also guaranteed that Mexico would play its first knockout-round match in Mexico City, providing the team with a home-country advantage as the competition moves into its elimination phase.
The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, is the first edition to feature 48 teams. Under the revised format, the top two teams from each of the 12 groups, along with the eight best third-placed teams, advance to the Round of 32.
Mexico will conclude its Group A campaign against the Czech Republic on June 24 in Mexico City, while South Korea faces South Africa on the same day. As of Friday, Mexico was the only team mathematically assured of a place in the knockout stage.
