Mexico defeated South Korea 1-0 to secure an early spot in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, topping Group A. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.

Group A, Matchday 2, June 19, Guadalajara, Estadio Akron:

⚽ MEXICO – SOUTH KOREA 1:0 (0:0). Goal: Romo 50'

The draw in the evening match between Czech Republic and South Africa played into the hands of the group leaders. Mexico and South Korea, both winners in the first round, remained at the top of the table. The winner of the match in Guadalajara would advance early to the knockout stage. A draw would have postponed the decision on the group winner until the final matchday.

In the first half, both teams were cautious, resulting in a lackluster display. The game produced no shots on goal or clear chances, drawing whistles of discontent from the crowd at halftime.

The only notable moment was when Los Angeles Galaxy forward Son Heung-min chipped the ball over goalkeeper Raúl Rangel, who was playing at his club's stadium. However, the South Korean captain was offside.

The second half also started slowly. Then, in the 50th minute, a childish mistake by 35-year-old Tokyo goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu ignited the Akron crowd. The Asian goalkeeper failed to hold onto a simple ball, and local Guadalajara midfielder Luis Romo pounced to make it 1-0.

In the first round, South Korea had come from behind against the Czech Republic to win. Hong Myung-bo's men could not repeat the feat. They had chances to equalize, but in the 87th minute, Rangel made two incredible saves, blocking point-blank shots from Cho Gue-sung and Yang Hyun-jun.

The final round of Group A will take place on June 25. Parallel matches will see Czech Republic face Mexico and South Africa take on South Korea. Mexico, as group winners, will play in the round of 16 against one of the third-placed teams. The second-placed team from Group A will face the second-placed team from Group B in the first knockout round.

In Group B, two matches were also played tonight. Canada thrashed Qatar 6-0, while Switzerland beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1.

The 23rd FIFA World Cup started on June 11 and will conclude on July 19. It is the first to be hosted by three countries – the USA, Canada, and Mexico – and the first to feature 48 teams. After the group stage, the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed teams will advance. The knockout stage begins with the round of 16.