By OkayGoal 
Mexico became the first team in Group A to secure a place in the World Cup 2026 knockout stage after Luis Romo’s second-half goal sealed a 1-0 win over South Korea. El Tri now have six points from two matches and can approach their final group game against Czech Republic with confidence.
Korea Republic Strong Favorite to Follow Mexico
Despite the defeat, Korea Republic remain in a strong position to qualify. Hong Myung-bo’s side sit second with three points and know that a victory over South Africa in their final group match would guarantee their place in the next round.
The other Group A fixture saw South Africa and the Czech Republic draw 1-1, keeping both nations’ hopes alive. After losing their opening matches, neither side could afford another defeat.
South Africa must now beat South Korea to realistically keep their knockout hopes alive, while the Czech Republic will likely need a victory against already-qualified Mexico and favorable results elsewhere.
With Mexico safely through and the other three teams still in contention, Group A is set for a dramatic finish on the final matchday.
Group A Standings (After Matchday 2)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | +3 | 6 |
| 2 | South Korea | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 3 |
| 3 | Czech Republic | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 1 |
| 4 | South Africa | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -2 | 1 |