Mexico Become First Team to Qualify for 2026 World Cup Round of 32 After Beating South Korea

Mexico have become the first team to qualify for the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after recording a narrow 1-0 victory over South Korea in their second Group A fixture on Friday.

The co-hosts secured another three points to maintain their perfect start to the tournament and strengthen their position at the top of the group standings.

Mexico’s winning goal came after a costly mistake from South Korea goalkeeper Seung-Gyu Kim, who failed to properly deal with a Raul Jimenez header, allowing Luis Romo to capitalise.

Romo reacted quickly to the loose ball and calmly lifted his effort over the goalkeeper to give Mexico the lead.

Despite the setback, South Korea pushed forward in search of an equaliser and created opportunities in the second half.

However, Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel produced a remarkable performance, making a crucial double save to deny substitute Gue-Sung Cho and preserve his side’s advantage.

The result means Mexico are the only team at the tournament to have collected maximum points from their opening two matches.

The victory also places them in a strong position to finish as Group A winners, with their qualification already secured before their final group-stage encounter.

Mexico’s impressive start has boosted expectations among fans as they continue their campaign on home soil.

The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, features an expanded format with more teams competing for the global title.

Mexico’s early qualification marks a significant milestone in the tournament and makes them the first nation to book a place in the knockout stage.