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Mexico secures first knockout spot at 2026 World Cup after 1-0 win over South Korea
On June 18, 2026, Mexico hosted South Korea at the Akron Stadium in Guadalajara for their Group A match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Luis Romo scored the only goal in the 50th minute after South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung‑gyu failed to control a routine ball, allowing Romo to tap the rebound into an empty net.
Mexico held on after the breakthrough, with goalkeeper Raúl Rangel making a critical late‑stop to preserve the lead. The 1–0 victory gave Mexico six points, clinching first place in Group A and making them the first team to qualify for the knockout round. They will face a third‑placed team in the round of 32, scheduled to be played in Mexico City.
The match prompted local authorities in Jalisco to implement temporary remote‑work measures and suspend schools to manage traffic and security during the high‑profile event.