Guadalajara, Jalisco — Mexico defeated South Korea 1-0 on Thursday night at Estadio Guadalajara, securing first place in Group A of the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought victory.
Luis Romo scored the only goal of the match in the second half, and goalkeeper Raúl Rangel made a crucial late save to preserve the win. The result keeps Mexico undefeated in the tournament and guarantees the team advances as group leaders.
The first half was tense and tightly contested, with few clear chances. South Korea nearly took the lead when Son Heung-min got behind the Mexican defense and chipped the ball over Rangel, but Edson Álvarez cleared it off the line with a sliding tackle. Mexico responded immediately when Julián Quiñones headed toward goal, but the South Korean goalkeeper made the save.
After a hydration break, South Korea controlled possession and created several dangerous moments, forcing Mexico to stay compact defensively. The match became increasingly physical, with both sides showing frustration. Mexico coach Javier Aguirre argued with officials and had to be calmed by the referee before halftime.
The second half saw a more aggressive Mexico. Jesús Gallardo fired a shot just wide of the post. Then, in the 60th minute, a mix-up between South Korea’s goalkeeper and a defender left the ball loose in the box, and Romo pounced to slot it into the net, sending the crowd of over 45,000 into celebration.
Mexico nearly doubled the lead when Quiñones set up Raúl Jiménez for a powerful volley, but the South Korean keeper made a fine save. Obed Vargas also tested the goalkeeper with a long-range effort.
In stoppage time, South Korea’s Cho Gue-sung rose for a header from close range, but Rangel produced a spectacular save to keep the ball out, securing the victory.
Mexico will now await their Round of 16 opponent as Group A winners.
