Mexico tops group and South Africa reaches knockout stage at 2026 World Cup

Mexico secured a flawless group performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating the Czech Republic 3–0 to win Group A with a 100% record and without conceding a goal for the first time since 1970. Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa appeared in his sixth tournament as part of the victory.

South Africa earned its first-ever knockout‑stage berth by beating South Korea 1–0, with a decisive goal from 22‑year‑old Thapelo Maseko, making him the second‑youngest scorer in World Cup history.

Hungarian former striker Tamás Priskin commented on the tournament’s marquee players, noting Lionel Messi’s five goals for Argentina, Neymar’s injury‑limited role for Brazil, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s limited impact for Portugal as the Portuguese side relies on a broader talent pool.