Mexico became the first team to qualify for the World Cup round of 32 with a 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday at the Estadio Guadalajara, with Luis Romo scoring the decisive goal in the 50th minute after a mistake by South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, according to match reports and a social media post.

The match was tightly contested with alternating dominance. Mexico pressed early but failed to create clear chances, and South Korea balanced the game after 10 minutes.

RELATED: Colombia Crushes Uzbekistan 3-1 to Top Group K in 2026 FIFA World Cup Opener

In the 87th minute, Mexican goalkeeper Raúl Rangel saved a shot from Cho Gue-sung, denying South Korea the equalizer. The match was ultimately decided by the single goalkeeping error.

In the final Group A match on June 24, Mexico will face the Czech Republic at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca, while South Korea will play South Africa in Monterrey. President Sheinbaum wrote on social media: “Congratulations to our National Team. Their triumph fills all of Mexico with pride.”

IN THIS ARTICLE