Co-hosts Mexico became the first nation to book their place in the World Cup knockout rounds after a 1-0 victory over South Korea on June 18, sealing top spot in Group A with a game to spare in front of a jubilant home crowd.
Luis Romo’s simple finish just after half-time, capitalising on a costly goalkeeping error, proved decisive as Mexico secured back-to-back wins and guaranteed progression as group winners at a delirious Guadalajara Stadium.
The result ensures Mexico will remain on home soil for the last 32, where they will face a third-placed side in Mexico City.
South Korea, who remain on three points, now face an anxious wait in a tightly contested group that still features the Czech Republic and South Africa, both on one point after their earlier draw.
The decisive moment came five minutes into the second half when South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with a teammate while dealing with a high ball, spilling possession directly to Romo, who calmly tapped into an empty net to send the stadium into celebration.
South Korea had threatened earlier, with Son Heung-min denied by a dramatic goal-line clearance from Edson Álvarez, while Mexico’s Julián Quiñones also forced a strong save in a first half dominated by the visitors in possession but lacking cutting edge.
Mexico was forced to withstand late pressure, but goalkeeper Raúl Rangel produced a stunning double save in the closing minutes to preserve the lead and secure qualification.
South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo surprisingly withdrew Son before the hour mark in search of a breakthrough, but his side struggled to create meaningful chances as Mexico managed the game professionally down the stretch.
The win leaves Mexico firmly in control of Group A, while South Korea must now regroup ahead of their final group match against South Africa, with all three remaining teams still mathematically alive for the second qualification spot.
