Mexico, with the win, will finish on top of their group and play their Round of 32 match in Mexico City.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Mexico on Friday became the first nation to qualify for the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup after a narrow 1-0 win over South Korea in Guadalajara.
The co-hosts took three points from their second Group A fixture, thanks to a Kim Seung-gyu goalkeeping error.
The shot-stopper spilled the ball following a collision with his team-mate Lee Gi-hyuk in the 50th minute, and Mexico midfielder Luis Romo was in the right place at the right time to tap into an empty net.
It was, however, a tale of two goalkeepers, as Mexico’s Raúl Rangel produced a stunning double save to deny substitute Cho Gue-sung.
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The result continued the North American country’s 100 per cent start to the World Cup and confirmed Javier Aguirre’s side will advance as Group A winners after just two fixtures.
It also ensures that Mexico will play their Round of 32 match in Mexico City after booking their knockout spot.
As for South Korea, they remain in a good position to advance thanks to their opening-day win over the Czech Republic.
They face South Africa next on Thursday in Monterrey, while Mexico take on the Czech Republic in their final group game at the same time.
