Co-host Mexico secured its place in the World Cup knockout stage with a 1-0 victory over South Korea in Zapopan. The win marked Mexico’s second consecutive triumph in the tournament, making it the first team to advance to the second round. The match began with South Korea pressing aggressively, led by captain Son Heung-min, but both sides failed to score in the first half.

After the break, Mexico increased its attacking tempo and broke the deadlock when Luis Rimo capitalized on a goalkeeping error by Kim Seung-gyu, who collided with a teammate while attempting to catch a cross. Despite South Korea’s efforts to equalize, Mexico’s organized defense held firm, sealing the narrow win.

With two wins from two matches, Mexico now leads its group with six points. South Korea sits second with three points, while the Czech Republic and South Africa each have one point, keeping the race for the remaining knockout spot open.