A historic 1-0 victory over South Korea at Estadio Akron has officially punched Mexico’s ticket to the World Cup Round of 32.
Co-hosts Mexico secured their place in the World Cup Round of 32 after grinding out a historic 1-0 victory against South Korea at Estadio Akron. The hard-fought win marks the first time El Tri have ever achieved three consecutive World Cup victories, while also extending their perfect tournament record against Asian opposition to six wins.
Following a cagey, goalless first half where clear-cut chances were scarce, the deadlock was broken just five minutes after the interval. South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-Gyu uncharacteristically spilled a routine cross, allowing Luis Romo to calmly lift the ball into an empty net for his maiden major tournament goal.
South Korea launched a late offensive, with substitute Cho Gue-sung denied by a brilliant reflex save from Raul Rangel, leaving the Asian side needing a result against South Africa to keep their tournament alive.
This victory makes Javier Aguirre’s team the first to qualify for the knockout round of the 2026 World Cup. Mexico has a perfect 6 points, 5 points ahead of the two bottom teams, with only one match remaining in Group A.
Mexico will face the Czech Republic in their dead-rubber final group game while South Korea play South Africa.