Mexico become first country to qualify for World Cup last 32

FIFA World Cup Mexico 1 - 0 South Korea FT Mexico reached the quarter-finals when they hosted the World Cup in 1986 and 1970 [Getty Images] 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's 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 winning start at the World Cup. Javier Aguirre's side will guarantee top spot in Group A if they avoid defeat to Czech Republic in their final group game on Thursday (02:00 BST). Should Mexico win their group, they 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.