Mexico 1-0 South Korea - World Cup 2026 result as Luis Romo strike sends co-hosts into last 32

Mexico became the first team to qualify for the last 32 of the World Cup with a scrappy 1-0 victory over South Korea.

Boos echoed around Estadio Guadalajara after a low-quality first half produced little in the way of goalmouth action, but the hosts needed only five minutes after the restart to break the deadlock.

Luis Romo bundled Mexico ahead after South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-Gyu inexplicably spilled a routine catch straight into the midfielder's path.

The visitors finally sprang to life in the closing stages, creating a flurry of chances. Substitute Cho Gue-Sung missed the best of them, heading straight at Raul Rangel from close range, as Mexico held on for victory.

Mexico are overwhelming favourites to top Group A after taking maximum points from their opening two matches, putting them on course for a last-32 tie in Mexico City against one of the best third-placed teams. Win that and a potential last-16 meeting with England - again in the high-altitude capital - could await.