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Mexico becomes first country to reach knockout stage of World Cup, beating South Korea 1-0

Luis Romo scored after a South Korea goalkeeping error, and Raúl Rangel’s late double-save kept Mexico unbeaten in Group A.

  • On Thursday, co-host Mexico defeated South Korea 1-0 in Guadalajara, becoming the first team to clinch a 2026 World Cup knockout stage appearance.
  • Mexico's breakthrough arrived shortly after halftime when South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with teammate Lee Gi-hyuk, spilling the ball for Luis Romo to score.
  • Goalkeeper Raul Rangel preserved the lead with a remarkable double save in the 87th minute, blocking Cho Gue-sung's header and denying Yang Hyun-jun's rebound.
  • Coach Javier Aguirre said, "We were patient, not passive," as Mexico secured the top spot in Group A and guaranteed a knockout match in Mexico City on June 30.
  • South Korea faces a critical match against South Africa on Wednesday to determine its knockout status, while Czech Republic and South Africa remain in contention for the group's second spot.
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Telemundo 52 broke the news on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
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