Mexico fans erupted as Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez scored nine first-half minutes apart, securing a 2-0 upset over Ecuador in their World Cup knockout match. The electric atmosphere at Estadio Azteca fueled Mexico’s dominance, mirroring their 1986 victory over Bulgaria—the last time they advanced this far. This marks Concacaf’s first knockout win against CONMEBOL in World Cup history, ending South America’s five-match unbeaten streak against the region in such encounters.

Ecuador’s shocking 10-man exit after a red card for Piero Hincapié added insult to injury, concluding a tournament marred by late disappointment.