Mexico first to reach knockouts after 1–0 win over South Korea
Their strong start guarantees them a place in the last 32.
KATHMANDU: Mexico have booked their place in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026, becoming the first team to qualify from the group phase after a narrow 1–0 victory over South Korea in Group A.
At the Estadio Guadalajara Stadium today, Mexico secured all three points thanks to a decisive strike from Luis Romo in the 50th minute.
His goal proved enough to separate the two sides in a tightly contested match.
With this result, Mexico sit top of Group A with six points from two matches, having also defeated South Africa in their opening game.
Their strong start guarantees them a place in the last 32.
Despite the defeat, South Korea remain in contention for the next round.
They currently have three points, having beaten Czech Republic in their first match, and still hold hopes of progressing.
In the same group, both Czech Republic and South Africa are level on one point each, keeping the qualification race wide open heading into the final round of group fixtures.
Under the tournament format, 32 teams will advance to the knockout stage of the 48-team World Cup, including the top two teams from each group along with the best third-placed sides.
