Mexico Book Round of 32 Spot with Victory Over South Korea
Mexico secured their place in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after coming from behind to defeat South Korea 1-0 in a tightly contested encounter.
South Korea made a bright start and nearly took the lead in the fourth minute through Lee Kang-in, but the Asian side failed to capitalize on their early opportunities.
After a goalless first half, Mexico broke the deadlock five minutes after the restart when midfielder Luis Romo found the back of the net to give El Tri a crucial advantage.
South Korea responded with a triple substitution in the 57th minute, introducing Hwang Hee-chan, Oh Hyun-gyu and later Yang Hyun-jun and Eom Ji-sung in an effort to revive their attack. However, the Mexicans remained disciplined at the back and managed to protect their slender lead.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre also refreshed his side, bringing on Obed Vargas and Orbelín Pineda in the 71st minute before introducing Santiago Giménez and Israel Reyes ten minutes later. César Huerta replaced Julián Quiñones late in the match as Mexico successfully saw out the contest.
The victory was enough to confirm Mexico’s qualification for the Round of 32, strengthening their hopes of a deep run in the tournament. South Korea, meanwhile, will have to fight for their survival in the competition in their remaining group fixtures.
