By
Mexico booked its place in the Round of 32 with a gritty 1-0 win over South Korea at Guadalajara Stadium, taking control of Group A after both teams opened the tournament with victories.
The matchup never developed into a wide-open contest. Instead, it turned into a physical, disciplined battle decided by a single mistake and a quick finish.
Organized under manager Javier Aguirre, Mexico spent much of the opening half limiting South Korea’s opportunities in transition. South Korea looked for openings with direct balls over the top toward Son Heung-min, but Mexico’s defense largely kept those threats in check.
The first half’s best chances came in quick succession for both sides. South Korea nearly broke through when Son got behind the defense and lifted an effort over goalkeeper Raúl Rangel, only for stand-in captain Edson Álvarez to race back and clear the ball off the line. Mexico answered with its strongest moment of the half when Roberto Alvarado delivered a cross to Julián Quiñones, whose header forced an impressive diving stop from goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu.
The breakthrough came shortly after halftime in the 50th minute.
Quiñones sent a cross into the area and Raúl Jiménez redirected it with a looping header. Kim came off his line attempting to collect but collided with defender Lee Gi-hyuk, knocking the ball loose. Luis Romo reacted first and poked the rebound into the open net, setting off celebrations around the stadium.
Mexico settled after the goal and South Korea had to chase the game. Hong Myung-bo turned to his bench and brought on Hwang Hee-chan and Oh Hyeon-gyu to add energy to the attack.
South Korea pushed late, but Mexico rarely allowed a clean chance. Aguirre responded with midfield changes, introducing Obed Vargas and Orbelín Pineda to help protect the lead and slow the pace in the closing stages.
Mexico saw out the final minutes to preserve another clean sheet, move to six points and finish atop Group A.
