Mexico become first team to reach World Cup knockout phase

Co-hosts Mexico became the first team to reach the knockout rounds of the World Cup with a 1-0 win over South Korea at a delirious Guadalajara Stadium on Thursday.
After a dreary first period, Luis Romo’s goal just after half-time thanks to a goalkeeping error put Mexico through as Group A winners with a match to go.
Mexico stopper Raul Rangel made a superb double save in the dying minutes to preserve their lead.
Finishing top keeps Mexico at home in the last 32 with a game against a third-placed team in Mexico City.
“It’s really difficult to deal with the emotions,” coach Javier Aguirre said of the challenges going into the game.
He reserved special praise for Rangel and the su...