Luis Romo was the hero for co-hosts Mexico as they defeated Korea Republic to secure the first spot in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
There was a flyover above a fervent Guadalajara Stadium ahead of this contest, but the game itself took a while to take off and chances were at a premium in the opening period.
Jesus Gallardo signalled Mexico’s intent to take charge of proceedings when he sent a low shot into the side-netting four minutes into the second half though, and the co-hosts were celebrating one minute later when Romo was on hand to prod into the unguarded net after a mix up between Kim Seunggyu and Lee Gihyuk.
Kim went some way to atoning for his part in the goal by staying big to deny Raul Jimenez from close range with a sensational stop in the 75th minute, and his opposite number Raul Rangel then pulled off a scarcely-believable double save from Cho Guesung and Yang Hyunjun with three minutes remaining to wrap up the win for Mexico.
With the win, Mexico now has first place in the bag, becoming the first to do so in the 2026 World Cup.
Javier Aguirre’s side will now meet a third-placed team from one of Group C, E, F, H, or I in the Round of 32 in Mexico City on June 30.
With this victory, co-host Mexico have now won three successive World Cup matches for the first time.
Romo won the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match.
