Mexico became the first nation to secure first place in a FIFA World Cup 2026 group after Luis Romo’s second-half strike earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea and guaranteed El Tri’s passage to the knockout stage.
In front of a passionate crowd at Guadalajara Stadium, Javier Aguirre’s side delivered another disciplined performance to move to six points from two matches and mathematically clinch top spot in Group A, becoming the first team at the tournament to lock down a place in the Round of 32.
The decisive moment arrived five minutes after the restart.
South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-Gyu misjudged a dangerous delivery into the penalty area and collided with defender Lee Ki-Hyuk, allowing Romo to pounce and steer the loose ball into the net. The midfielder’s fifth international goal proved enough to separate two evenly matched teams.
The match had offered little attacking quality during a tense first half, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut opportunities. Home supporters voiced their frustration as the teams went into the break deadlocked, but Mexico emerged with greater purpose after halftime.
After taking the lead, El Tri looked the more dangerous side and came close to extending their advantage on several occasions. South Korea, however, remained alive in the contest thanks to a series of important interventions from Kim, who redeemed himself with key saves after his costly error.
The Koreans mounted a late surge in search of an equaliser, forcing Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel into action. The Chivas shot-stopper produced a crucial double save in the closing stages to preserve the clean sheet and ensure the hosts collected all three points.
The victory carries historic significance for Mexico.
For the first time in their World Cup history, El Tri have mathematically secured first place in their group after only two matches. It is also Mexico’s first World Cup group-stage triumph as hosts outside Mexico City and their first time winning a World Cup group since the 2002 tournament—also under the guidance of Aguirre.
With qualification secured and top spot already guaranteed, Mexico can now approach their final group match against Czechia without pressure, knowing they will return to Mexico City for a home Round-of-32 fixture on June 30.
South Korea remain second in the group and still control their own destiny heading into their final match against South Africa. Despite the defeat, their hopes of advancing remain firmly alive.
For Mexico, however, this was a night of milestones.
One goal.
One victory.
And a place in World Cup history as the first team to conquer its group at the 2026 tournament.