Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel delivered a stunning late double save to secure a 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Guadalajara Stadium.
The win clinched the top spot in Group A of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for Mexico.
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Decisive Moment
With Mexico leading 1-0, South Korea sent a dangerous cross into the box in the closing minutes.
Rangel blocked the ball directly inside the penalty area, then pulled off a one-handed grab even as his own defender collided with him to prevent an equalizer.
The goalkeeper's heroics preserved the narrow lead and secured the group victory.
According to Sporting News, the win guarantees Mexico two home matches to start the knockout rounds.
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The team will now face a third-place opponent in Mexico City in the round of 16.
Rangel's Rise
Rangel, who plays club football for Chivas del Guadalajara, had only appeared in friendly matches for the national team before this tournament.
Longtime starting goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa remained on the bench as Rangel assumed the starting role for the World Cup.
The victory also allows Mexico to rest key players in their final group stage match.
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Mexico enters the next phase with momentum after a successful group stage conclusion.
