Mexico secured their place in the World Cup knockout stage as the first team after a 1-0 victory over South Korea, maintaining their perfect start to the tournament.
After defeating South Africa in their opening match, the co-hosts continued their winning run against Son Heung-min’s South Korea at Zapopan on Friday. The victory gave Mexico six points from two matches and placed them at the top of Group A.
South Korea started the match with an attacking approach, creating early pressure on the Mexican defence. However, the hosts gradually grew into the game but neither side could find the breakthrough in the opening 45 minutes as the teams went into the break goalless.
Mexico found the decisive goal shortly after the restart. South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu failed to control a cross after colliding with a teammate, allowing Luis Romo to take advantage and calmly finish into the net.
Despite late efforts from South Korea, Mexico held on to their narrow lead and secured a crucial three points.
With two wins from two matches, Mexico now sit comfortably at the top of the group and have become the first team to qualify for the knockout stage. South Korea remain second with three points, while Czechia and South Africa occupy the third and fourth positions with one point each.
TZ
