By Staff Reporter
Guadalajara, Mexico – Host nation Mexico secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday, delighting a passionate crowd at Guadalajara Stadium.
The win moves Mexico to six points at the top of Group A and guarantees their progression to the knockout stages with one group match remaining. South Korea remain second on three points, while Czechia and South Africa are still in contention with one point each.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre praised his side’s determination after a tense and closely contested encounter.
“It was a very close game; we didn’t give up a single centimetre and fought for every ball as if it were our last,” Aguirre said.
“It was a game where whoever made a mistake would lose, and it was them. It may have been a game to forget in terms of spectacle, but the result is one to remember. I’m happy because it means we’re staying in our beloved Mexico.”
Both teams entered the match knowing a victory would secure qualification. Mexico made three changes to the side that defeated South Africa 2-0 in their opening fixture, while South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo largely kept faith with the team that overcame Czechia 2-1.
South Korea captain Son Heung-min nearly opened the scoring after 15 minutes when he lofted the ball over goalkeeper José Rangel. However, defender Edson Álvarez produced a spectacular bicycle kick clearance on the goal line. Although Son was later flagged offside, replays suggested the decision was extremely close.
Mexico responded through Julián Quiñones, whose powerful header forced goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu into an impressive save.
The first half ended with South Korea controlling possession but struggling to create clear opportunities, leaving Mexican supporters frustrated as boos echoed around the stadium at halftime.
The breakthrough arrived five minutes after the restart. Goalkeeper Kim misjudged a high ball and collided with one of his defenders, spilling possession directly to Luis Romo, who calmly tapped into an empty net to send the home crowd into celebration.
In a surprising tactical move, Hong withdrew Son before the hour mark and introduced Hwang Hee-chan. Despite pushing forward in search of an equaliser, South Korea lacked attacking sharpness and were repeatedly denied by the Mexican defence.
Late pressure from the visitors almost produced a dramatic equaliser, but Guadalajara-born goalkeeper José Rangel made crucial saves to preserve Mexico’s lead.
Mexico will conclude their group campaign against Czechia, while South Korea face South Africa in a decisive final Group A encounter. Earlier in the day, Czechia and South Africa played out a 1-1 draw, leaving qualification still within reach for both sides.
The victory ensures Mexico advance to the knockout rounds and keeps alive hopes of a memorable World Cup run on home soil.
