World Cup 2026 | Mexico 1 - 0 South Korea

Co-hosts Mexico became the first nation to reach the knockout stage of the World Cup

They achieved this after edging past South Korea in Guadalajara.

Author | James Y

Stadium | Estadio Guadalajara

Mexico midfielder Luis Romo was perfectly placed to tap into an empty net in the 50th minute after goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu spilled the ball following a collision with team-mate Lee Gi-hyuk.

South Korea's best opportunity arrived three minutes from time when Cho Gue-sung's close-range header was saved by Raul Rangel, with the Mexico goalkeeper reacting again to deny Yang Hyun-jun from the rebound.

Earlier, captain Son Heung-min had chipped Rangel only for Edson Alvarez to clear off the line, although the former Tottenham forward was eventually flagged offside.

Roared on by a passionate home crowd that had voiced its frustration at half-time after a lacklustre opening period, Mexico almost doubled their lead in the 75th minute, but Raul Jimenez's effort from a tight angle was kept out by Kim.

Substitute Obed Vargas also tested the South Korea goalkeeper late on with a powerful drive that drew an impressive diving save.

One of the best moments of the tournament so far has been the friendship between Mexico and South Korea fans.

The victory maintained Mexico's perfect start to the tournament and ensured Javier Aguirre's side progress as Group A winners.

What is the impact of this Mexico win?

That means the co-hosts will remain in Mexico City for both their last-32 tie and a potential last-16 encounter, where they could meet England if Thomas Tuchel's side top their group and come through their opening knockout match.

Despite defeat, South Korea remain well placed to progress after beginning their campaign with victory over the Czech Republic.

They face South Africa in Monterrey on Thursday, while Mexico take on the Czech Republic in their final group match at the same time in Mexico City.