South Korea's forward #09 Cho Gue-sung shoots and misses a chance during the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Korea at the Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan on June 18, 2026. (Photo by CARL DE SOUZA / AFP)
Co-hosts Mexico became the first team to reach the knockout rounds of the World Cup with a 1-0 win over South Korea at a delirious Guadalajara Stadium on Thursday.
After a dreary first period, Luis Romo’s goal just after half-time, thanks to a goalkeeping error, put Mexico through as Group A winners with a match to go.
Mexico stopper Raul Rangel made a superb double save in the dying minutes to preserve their lead.
Finishing top keeps Mexico at home in the last 32 with a game against a third-placed team in Mexico City.
