Mexico edge South Korea to become first knockout qualifiers

Co-hosts Mexico secured their place as the first nation to qualify for the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup following a tense 1-0 victory against South Korea at the Estadio Guadalajara. Midfielder Luis Romo scored the decisive goal in the 50th minute, tapping into an empty net after South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with teammate Lee Gi-hyuk and spilled the ball. The victory continues a perfect start for Javier Aguirre's side, who require only a draw against the Czech Republic on Thursday to guarantee top spot in Group A.

The match provided plenty of late drama before a passionate home crowd of 45,522, who initially booed the hosts off the pitch following a scoreless first half. South Korea pushed aggressively for an equaliser in the closing stages, creating their finest opportunity in the 87th minute when Cho Gue-sung saw his close-range header blocked by Mexican goalkeeper Raul Rangel. Rangel then produced a vital follow-up save to deny Yang Hyun-jun from the rebound. Earlier in the match, South Korean captain Son Heung-min saw a chipped effort cleared off the goal line by Edson Alvarez, though the assistant referee subsequently flagged the play for offside.

Mexico pushed for a second goal late in the game, with Raul Jimenez seeing an effort from a tight angle blocked before substitute Obed Vargas forced Kim into a diving save. A group victory ensures Mexico remains in Mexico City for their round of 32 and potential round of 16 fixtures, where a potential clash against England awaits. South Korea still retain a strong chance of progression to the next phase following their opening victory against the Czech Republic, and they look to rebound against South Africa on Thursday.

-BBC