Image: from shorts91 X @shorts_91
By Open Chronicle with agencies
GUADALAJARA — Mexico secured its place in the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea at Akron Stadium on Thursday, becoming the first host nation to qualify for the Round of 32.
A second-half goal from Luis Romo proved decisive as Mexico capitalized on a costly mistake by South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu to claim all three points and take control of Group A.
The victory leaves Mexico on six points and guarantees progression to the next stage of the tournament, marking a significant improvement on their disappointing group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Romo Punishes Goalkeeping Error
Backed by a passionate home crowd in Guadalajara, Mexico began the match with greater possession and early attempts from distance, though Kim Seung-gyu comfortably dealt with the opening efforts.
South Korea nearly struck first in the 16th minute when captain Son Heung-min raced through on goal and attempted a delicate chip over the advancing goalkeeper. However, defender Edson Álvarez produced a crucial clearance near the goal line to keep the score level.
Mexico responded through Julián Quiñones, whose powerful header forced a strong save from Kim.
After a balanced first half, South Korea came close again before the break when Seol Young-woo found space inside the penalty area but fired wide of the target.
Hosts Find Breakthrough
The Mexican side emerged from halftime with greater urgency.
Just four minutes into the second half, full-back Jesús Gallardo tested the South Korean defense with a dangerous run into the area.
Moments later came the decisive moment. A cross into the box appeared routine for Kim Seung-gyu, but the goalkeeper failed to secure the ball. The loose ball fell directly to Luis Romo, who calmly tapped it into an empty net to give Mexico a 1-0 lead.
The goal sparked celebrations throughout the stadium and energized the home side as they sought a second goal.
South Korea Pushes Back
South Korea continued to threaten and nearly found an equalizer on several occasions.
Mexico almost doubled its advantage through veteran striker Raúl Jiménez, whose close-range effort was brilliantly saved by Kim Seung-gyu.
The Asian side responded through Lee Kang-in, whose long-range strike sailed just over the crossbar.
Substitute Obed Vargas then forced another impressive save from Kim with a powerful effort from outside the penalty area.
South Korea’s best chance came late in the match when striker Cho Gue-sung connected with a cross from the left flank, only for Mexican goalkeeper Raúl Rangel to produce a spectacular save and preserve the lead.
Knockout Stage Secured
The result confirms Mexico as the group leaders and ensures their participation in the knockout rounds. The achievement carries added significance given the country’s history in the tournament.
Competing in its 18th World Cup, Mexico will now aim to surpass its best-ever performances, having reached the quarterfinals on home soil in both 1970 and 1986.
Mexico will return to action on June 24 against the Czech Republic at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
South Korea remains in contention for a place in the knockout rounds and will face South Africa in Monterrey on the same day.