Mexico have done it. A hard-fought 1-0 win against South Korea at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has sent El Tri straight to the top of Group A, making them the first team to clinch a knockout round berth at this year’s tournament.
The opening 45 minutes were forgettable. Mexico mustered just 3 shots while South Korea offered nothing on goal, and the home crowd grew restless enough to boo their own side off the pitch at halftime.
The second half told a different story. Mexico came out sharper and got their reward at the 50th minute, when South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu fumbled a routine catch after colliding with his own teammate. Luis Romo was first to react, finishing into an empty net to give Mexico the lead they would never relinquish.
South Korea actually edged the stats, holding 57% possession and completing 517 passes to Mexico’s 348. But numbers only go so far. Mexico’s backline held firm, and Kim made three strong saves to keep the deficit at one as the Koreans pushed for an equalizer that never came.
Mexico finish the matchday with a perfect 2-0-0 record and a guaranteed place in the last 16. South Korea, sitting at 1-0-1, are not out yet, but they will need a result in their final group stage match to keep their World Cup alive.
