Mexico becomes first team to reach knockout stage

Mexico became the first team to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage after defeating South Korea 1-0 on Thursday, capitalizing on a costly defensive error to maintain its perfect start in Group A.
Luis Romo scored the decisive goal in the 50th minute after South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with defender Lee Gi-hyuk and spilled the ball inside the penalty area. Romo reacted quickest to slot into the empty net and hand Mexico a second consecutive victory on home soil.
The result sparked celebrations across Mexico as El Tri moved to six points from two matches.
, guaranteeing qualification for the round of 32 in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Mexico ...