FIFA WC 2026: Mexico beat Czechia 3-0, South Africa stun South Korea 1-0 to enter knockouts

Monterrey/Mexico City: Mexico and South Africa sealed knockout-stage places in contrasting fashion at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Mexico cruising past Czechia 3-0 and South Africa scripting history with a 1-0 win over South Korea.

Mexico wrapped up their Group A campaign with a third straight victory, finishing top of the section with nine points. Mateo Chavez opened the scoring after linking up with Raul Jimenez, before Julian Quinones doubled the lead following a poor Czechia clearance. Chavez struck again early in the second half, and Alvaro Fidalgo added a late fourth to complete a dominant win at Mexico City Stadium. Legendary goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa also came on for his sixth World Cup appearance as Mexico celebrated a perfect group-stage run.

Czechia began brightly, with Denis Visinsky testing the Mexican defense early, but they were unable to sustain the pressure. Mexico grew into the match, controlled proceedings and finished with their third clean sheet in as many games, a first for the country at the World Cup since 1970.

In Monterrey, South Africa created history by beating South Korea 1-0 to qualify for the Round of 32 for the first time in their World Cup history. Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive goal in the 63rd minute, finishing a fine cross from substitute Moremi after South African pressure forced an error in the Korean defense.

South Korea, who needed at least a draw, pushed hard after the break and brought on captain Son Heung-min and other key players, but South Africa’s defense stood firm. Goalkeeper and captain Ronwen Williams produced crucial saves late on to preserve the lead, including a vital stop in injury time as Korea threw everything forward. The win sent South Africa through as Group A runners-up, while Mexico finished as group champions. South Africa will face Canada in Los Angeles on June 28, while South Korea must wait for other results to see whether they can progress as one of the best third-placed teams.

(Inputs from IANS)