Mexico secured their place in the World Cup knockout stage as Group A winners after a 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday. The game was won by Luis Romo’s second-half strike, which capitalized on a costly mistake by South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-Gyu.
The win moved Mexico to six points from two matches and ensured their first knockout game would be played in Mexico City on June 30. They are the first team to qualify for the knockout stage.
Mexico started brightly but struggled to turn early possession into clear chances, with South Korea growing stronger as the match progressed. The mood inside Guadalajara Stadium shifted dramatically after Romo’s goal moments after the restart, lifting both teams and supporters alike.
South Korea nearly equalized midway through the second half when Raul Jimenez fired a half-volley from close range, but Kim made an outstanding save. Mexico’s goalkeeper, Raul Rangel, preserved their lead with two remarkable saves in quick succession.
Mexico will face Czech Republic in their next group match, while South Korea can still secure progression against South Africa on Wednesday.