Hosts Mexico Scrape Past South Korea to Secure World Cup Knockout Spot
The 2026 World Cup has its first knockout stage qualifiers after co-hosts Mexico secured a narrow victory against South Korea in Guadalajara. Maintaining their perfect start to the tournament, Javier Aguirre’s men are now guaranteed to advance as Group A winners.
The home crowd did not hide their frustrations during a lacklustre opening 45 minutes, audibly booing the national team as they headed down the tunnel at half-time. However, the atmosphere shifted drastically shortly after the restart.
In the 50th minute, Mexican midfielder Luis Romo capitalised on a catastrophic defensive mix-up. South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided heavily with his own defender Lee Gi-hyuk and spilled the ball, leaving Romo in the perfect position to tap into an empty net and break the deadlock.
Spurred on by the rejuvenated home support, Mexico relentlessly searched for a second goal. Raul Jimenez saw a tight-angled strike denied in the 75th minute before substitute Obed Vargas tested the South Korean keeper with a powerful late drive that forced a spectacular diving save.
Late drama and knockout implications
South Korea fought hard for an equaliser but found themselves thwarted by an inspired Raul Rangel. The Mexican shot-stopper produced a brilliant double save in the dying moments of the match to deny a close-range header from Cho Gue-sung and a fierce follow-up from Yang Hyun-jun.
Earlier in the clash, South Korean captain Son Heung-min had a chipped effort cleared off the line by Edson Alvarez, though the flag was ultimately raised for offside.
By dominating Group A, Mexico have ensured they will remain in Mexico City for both their last-32 fixture and a potential last-16 tie. If Thomas Tuchel’s England manage to win their respective group and first knockout match, the two nations are on a collision course for a blockbuster knockout clash.
Despite the loss, South Korea are still in a remarkably strong position to qualify following their initial victory over the Czech Republic. They will head to Monterrey to face South Africa on Thursday at 02:00 BST. At the exact same time, Mexico will wrap up their group stage campaign against the Czech Republic in the capital.
