GUADALAJARA, Mexico : Mexico became the first team to secure a place in the World Cup round of 32 after a 1-0 victory over South Korea in Group A on Friday.
Luis Romo scored the decisive goal five minutes after halftime, capitalising on a defensive mix-up between South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu and defender Kim Min-jae to hand the hosts all three points.
The win lifted Mexico to six points from two matches, ensuring their progression to the knockout stage and leaving them top of Group A.
South Korea remained on three points in second place, while the Czech Republic and South Africa each had one point after drawing their second-round match.
With one group game still to play, Mexico became the first team to book their place in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada.
The hosts will now look to maintain top spot in the group as they prepare for their final first-round fixture.
