Co-hosts Mexico became the first nation to qualify for the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup with a narrow win over South Korea in Guadalajara.
Mexico midfielder Luis Romo was in the right place at the right time to tap into an empty net after goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu spilled the ball following a collision with his team-mate Lee Gi-hyuk in the 50th minute.
South Korea’s best chance came in the 87th minute when Cho Gue-sung’s close-range header was saved by Raul Rangel and the Mexico keeper was able to keep out Yang Hyun-jun’s follow-up.
Earlier, captain Son Heung-min had chipped Rangel before his effort was cleared off the line by Edson Alvarez, although the former Tottenham forward was flagged offside.
Backed by a boisterous home support who had booed their team at half-time following a toothless first half, Mexico almost added a second in the 75th minute but Raul Jimenez’s effort from a tight angle was saved.
Substitute Obed Vargas also forced Kim into a fine diving save late on with a driven strike.
The result continued Mexico’s 100% start at the World Cup and confirmed Javier Aguirre’s side will advance as Group A winners.
That means the co-hosts will be in Mexico City for both their last-32 and potential last-16 tie, where they could face England if Thomas Tuchel’s side win their group and first knockout match.
Despite their defeat, South Korea remain in a good position to also advance thanks to their opening-day win over Czech Republic.
They face South Africa next on Thursday (02:00 BST) in Monterrey. Mexico take on Czech Republic in their final group game at the same time Mexico City.
Canada six-goal win over Qatar marred by serious injury
Meanwhile, Canada, 40 years after playing in their first World Cup, secured their first-ever win at the tournament in emphatic fashion, thrashing Qatar 6-0 in front of a packed and loud Vancouver Stadium.
They are almost certain of a place in the last 32. But celebrations were overshadowed by a dreadful injury to Ismael Kone.
The incident happened eight minutes into the second half, with Canada leading 3-0. Their former Watford midfielder Kone, shortly after receiving the ball, was caught late and badly by Assim Madibo as he challenged for possession.
Kone’s reaction, and that of the players around him, said it all.
The 24-year-old Sassuolo midfielder looked anguished and in shock, with his leg visibly broken. His distraught team-mates rushed to him as the referee halted play so the medical staff could come on, while Madibo had his hands on his head.
A scuffle broke out between the two teams as frustration and anger over what had happened bubbled over.
Kone, though, despite suffering an injury that has ended his World Cup, lifted his thumb to the crowd as he was taken off on a stretcher.
“It was right in front of us, and everyone could hear the bone snap,” said Canada boss Jesse Marsch.
“I haven’t spoken to Ismael yet, but he’s at the hospital. He will prepare for surgery.
“Everybody’s a little shaken by the whole experience because of the nature of the injury, and also because Ismael is a big part of the heart of our team. It will be a big loss for us.” BBC
