Mexico secured their place in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Ecuador at the Azteca Stadium on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
The match was delayed by an hour due to a severe thunderstorm.
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Julian Quinones broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute, cutting inside from the left flank and firing a powerful shot into the top corner.
Raul Jimenez doubled the lead before halftime, capitalizing on defensive errors from Ecuador after receiving a square pass from Quinones in the 31st minute.
Ecuador struggled to create chances in the second half as Mexico controlled possession.
Mexico goalkeeper Hernan Galindez made a fingertip save to deny a header from captain Cesar Montes in the 66th minute.
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The match grew tense in stoppage time when Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie received a straight red card in the 94th minute following an altercation with Mexican substitute Santiago Gimenez.
Sky Sports analyst Lewis Jones commented on a potential matchup for Mexico against England, should they defeat DR Congo.
"If England take care of business against DR Congo, Mexico await," Jones said.
The victory marks four consecutive wins for Mexico in the tournament, during which they have scored eight goals without conceding any.
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Mexico now awaits the winner of the round of 32 match between England and DR Congo to determine their opponent for the knockout fixture.
