In a match held Friday morning at Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico, the host nation defeated South Korea 1–0 to secure early qualification to the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Mexico’s victory over South Korea ensures their progression to the round of 32. (June 19, Kathmandu)
With a decisive goal from Luis Romo, Mexico emerged as the first team to reach the round of 32. The tough and competitive win on home soil in Guadalajara sealed Mexico’s position as group ‘A’ leaders advancing to the knockout rounds. Romo’s goal in the 50th minute proved to be the match-winner.
During the 50th minute, South Korea’s goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with teammate Lee Gi-hyuk, causing the ball to slip from his hands. Mexico capitalized on this fourth corner opportunity, with midfielder Romo expertly directing the ball into an open net. South Korea had a chance to equalize in the 87th minute, but Cho Gue-sung’s close-range header was saved by Mexico’s goalkeeper Raul Rangel.
Although South Korea maintained greater possession throughout the match, they were unable to score. Both teams attempted eight shots in total, with four on target by Mexico and two by South Korea. South Korea also held the edge in passing accuracy. With this win, Mexico has secured 6 points and qualified for the knockout stage, while South Korea, with 3 points, still retains the possibility of advancing.
In earlier matches, Mexico defeated South Africa, and the Czech Republic lost to South Korea. Both the Czech Republic and South Africa have 1 point each after two games, keeping their knockout stage hopes alive. Mexico is the first team to advance to the knockout stage. In the 2018 World Cup, Mexico reached the round of 16, whereas in 2022, they were eliminated in the group stage. A total of 32 teams will enter the knockout round. The top two teams from each group, along with eight third-placed teams via play-offs, will progress to the round of 32.
