Luis Romo’s second-half goal earned Mexico a 1-0 win over South Korea and made the co-hosts the first team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32.
🚨🇲🇽 Mexico have officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32. pic.twitter.com/v84TLmF1EE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2026
Mexico became the first nation to book a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 after edging South Korea 1-0 in Guadalajara. Luis Romo struck the decisive goal in the 50th minute, capitalising on a costly mix-up in the South Korean defence. The result moved the co-hosts to six points from two matches and guaranteed their progression from Group A.
South Korea pushed for an equaliser late on, but goalkeeper Raúl Rangel produced key saves to preserve Mexico’s advantage and secure a second consecutive clean sheet. The victory also ensured Mexico would finish above both Czechia and South Africa following their earlier 1-1 draw.
Mexico are the first side to advance under the tournament’s new 48-team format and will head into their final group match with qualification already secured.
UPDATE:🚨🇨🇦 Understand Canada midfielder Ismael Koné has suffered fractured fibula and tibia fracture as well.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2026
He’s now in the hospital with his mother Suzanne, supporting ahead of surgery.
Koné could be out for 4-5 months, World Cup over.
Madibo went to apologize in dressing room. pic.twitter.com/6ZcfzlmpXN
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