Mexico secured its place in the round of 32 and clinched the top spot in Group A after a 1-0 victory over South Korea at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara during the 2026 World Cup group stage.
Luis Romo scored the decisive goal in the 50th minute after South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with teammate Lee Gi-hyuk, leaving an open net for Romo to find the back of the goal.
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It was Romo's fifth international goal and made him the first Chivas player to score for Mexico in a World Cup since 2010.
Mexico's defense held firm throughout the match, with goalkeeper Raúl Rangel making a critical double save from close range against Cho Gue-sung in the 87th minute to preserve the clean sheet.
National team manager Javier Aguirre praised Rangel's performance in a post-match interview with TV Azteca.
"Tala is at home, he is happy and I am with him. We are all happy," said Aguirre.
The victory extended Mexico's perfect tournament record to six points from two matches, following their opening 2-0 win over South Africa.
Rangel described the late-game double save as pure reaction.
"It was very fast, it was pure reaction.
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I couldn't tell you very well what I experienced because I only remember the impact with my teammate and already having the ball, but I was very concentrated.
I appeared at the moment my team required it and I'll keep that," said Rangel.
The win ensures Mexico will play its upcoming knockout stage match at Estadio Azteca.
"I am happy, but we have to turn the page on this.
We have to enjoy it, of course, but we have to think about the next opponent, which is the Czech Republic," said Rangel.
He expressed confidence in the squad's ability to challenge any opponent in the elimination rounds.
"I already said it and I dare to say it: We are ready to compete against any national team," said Rangel.
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Mexico will conclude the group stage against Czechia on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Estadio Azteca, while South Korea will face South Africa in Monterrey.
