Co-hosts Mexico became the first team to reach the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a tense 1-0 victory over South Korea at a packed Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, the western Mexican city serving as one of the tournament's host venues. Luis Romo's goal just after half-time, set up by a costly goalkeeping error, sealed Mexico's place in the round of 32 as Group A winners with one group game still to play.

The decisive moment came five minutes into the second half when South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu came for a high ball, collided with one of his own defenders and spilled the ball directly to Romo, who needed only to prod it into an empty net. The stadium erupted, and the goal proved enough to end South Korean resistance — though Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel, a native of Guadalajara, had to produce a superb double save in the dying minutes to preserve the clean sheet. South Korea captain Son Heung-min, the Los Angeles FC forward who is one of Asia's most recognisable footballers, had threatened early when his looping effort was cleared off the line by Edson Alvarez, but he was substituted before the hour mark as South Korea struggled to create clear chances.

For Mexico, qualifying from the group stage means they will play their round-of-32 match on home soil, in Mexico City, against a third-placed team — a significant advantage in a tournament co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada.