Mexico secured a 2-0 victory over Ecuador on Tuesday, ending a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout win. Goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez put Mexico through to the last 16 of the tournament.
This was Mexico’s first knockout stage win since their 1986 triumph over Bulgaria at home. The co-hosts will face either England or DRC in the next round, with a rematch at the Azteca Stadium.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre praised his team’s performance and the atmosphere, which surpassed even Mexico’s tournament opener. Over 80,000 fans filled the stadium before kickoff, despite thunderstorms delaying the game by an hour.
The match saw intense early pressure from both teams, with Gilberto Mora coming close to scoring one of the tournament’s goals. However, it was in the 22nd minute that Mexico broke through, with Quinones and Jimenez netting their opening two goals.
Mexico doubled their lead nine minutes later when Jimenez scored his 47th international goal, moving within five of Javier Hernandez’s all-time record for most goals by a Mexican player. The hosts dominated the second half as Ecuador struggled to contain Mexico’s attacks.
Ecuador showed signs of life in the second half but failed to threaten Raul Rangel. Galindez made several crucial saves to keep Mexico clean and secure their place in the next round.