Mexico secured a 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday, clinching first place in Group A and becoming the first team to reach the World Cup knockout stage. Luis Romo capitalized on a defensive error in the 50th minute when South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-Gyu collided with defender Lee Gi-Hyuk, dropping the ball for an easy finish. Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel preserved the lead with crucial saves late in the match.

The win marks Mexico's first World Cup victory on home soil outside Mexico City, ending a long drought from previous tournaments. Mexico now sits atop Group A with six points from two matches, three clear of South Korea and five ahead of Czechia and South Africa. Coach Javier Aguirre acknowledged the team's resilience despite not playing their best football.

South Korea struggled throughout, with star forward Son Heung-Min substituted in the 57th minute after another disappointing performance. The 33-year-old entered with three career World Cup goals but couldn't find his rhythm. Coach Hong Myung-Bo called the defensive mistake unfortunate but remained optimistic about their final group match.

Mexico's group-stage exit in 2022 makes this advancement particularly meaningful. With the tournament expanded to 48 teams featuring a round of 32, El Tri has secured home-field advantage for at least two more matches, giving them a significant edge in pursuit of their best World Cup run in decades.