Mexico Become First Team to Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Knockouts

Mexico secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea at Estadio Guadalajara. Luis Romo scored the decisive second-half goal after capitalizing on a defensive error, earning the Player of the Match award. Goalkeeper Raul Rangel preserved the lead with crucial late saves as Mexico recorded a second consecutive clean sheet. The win takes El Tri to six points from two matches, guaranteeing top spot in Group A and making them the first team to qualify for the knockout rounds. South Korea remain on three points and will need a positive result in their final group match to keep their World Cup hopes alive.