Mexico became the first nation to secure a place in the World Cup knockout stages, thanks to a catastrophic mistake by South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu that gifted Luis Romo the only goal in a 1-0 victory in Zapopan.
Just five minutes into the second half, Kim attempted to claim a deflected header around 12 yards from his net but collided with his own defender and spilled the ball directly into the path of Romo, who calmly passed it into the empty goal.
“Mexico first to reach World Cup knockouts with 1-0 win over South Korea due to keeper error.”
The co-hosts, who have now won both their opening matches, dominated possession but struggled to double their lead. Kim partially redeemed himself with an impressive save to deny Raul Jimenez with 15 minutes remaining.
South Korea pushed for an equaliser, managing nine shots but only two on target. In a frantic late spell, Cho Gue-Sung directed a header at goal that Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel saved, and the rebound fell to Yang Hyun-Jun inside the six-yard box. Rangel reacted superbly to make a second stop before clutching the ball.
In added time, Han-Beom Lee met a corner with a free header but sent his effort wide, sealing Mexico’s place in the last 32.
The victory means Mexico are the first team to advance in the expanded 48-nation tournament. Should England win Group L, the two sides could meet in the knockout rounds – a tantalising prospect for England manager Thomas Tuchel, who is aiming to end a 60-year trophy drought, and for football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, both likely playing in their final World Cup.