Mexico has made it through to the round of thirty-two in the FIFA 2026 World Cup by winning their second group game by a score of one-to-zero against South Korea. With this win, El Tri became the first team to qualify for the knockout stage of the expanded forty-eight-team World Cup. The early victory will also help cement them as one of the favourite teams to go deep into this tournament.
Javier Aguirre’s team played their first home match at the World Cup against South Africa and beat them by a score of two-to-zero, so they now will look to keep their undefeated streak alive against South Korea in a game played in Guadalajara. Luis Romo scored the only goal of the game in the second half, capitalising on a mistake by the goalkeeper. Raúl Rangel also provided great goalkeeping and was a difference-maker for Mexico.
Mexico is in first place in Group A with 6 points after winning two games. Mexico has scored three goals and has yet to allow a goal. South Korea is in second place with three points, and Czechia and South Africa are in third place with one point each.
Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams, Groups, Schedule, Venues, Results and Goal Scorers
Group A Standings
| Rank | Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | +3 | 6 |
| 2 | South Korea | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 3 |
| 3 | Czechia | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 1 |
| 4 | South Africa | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -2 | 1 |
Mexico became secure in their spot due to Czechia and South Africa being unable to exceed four points in their final group matches. Even if South Korea win their final group game, they cannot tie Mexico for the second-best record if they finish with six points. Hence, Mexico have a top-two finish guaranteed and thus assure themselves of a berth in Round 32.
On June 24, the final Group A matches are played: Mexico vs Czechia and South Korea vs South Africa. Mexico will seek to finish Group A as the top team and receive favourable draws for subsequent rounds of competition.
Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G: Complete Schedule, Venues, Dates and Match Timing in IST
Mexico’s qualification is just another achievement for co-hosting this World Cup. With the support of hometown fans and a sound defensive unit, Mexico have established themselves as a top performer through the first week of World Cup competition.