(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Mexico Become First Team to Reach FIFA World Cup Knockout Stage

GUADALAJARA: Co-hosts Mexico became the first team to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea in Group A on Thursday.

Luis Romo scored the decisive goal shortly after halftime, helping Mexico maintain their perfect start to the tournament and seal top spot in the group with one match remaining.

The breakthrough came in the 50th minute when South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu failed to deal with a high ball, allowing Romo to calmly finish into an open net.

Mexico had to withstand late pressure from South Korea, with goalkeeper Raul Rangel producing a crucial double save in the closing stages to preserve the lead.

South Korea created the first notable opportunity of the match through captain Son Heung-min, but Mexico defender Edson Alvarez cleared the danger from the goal line. Mexico also threatened before the break, with Julian Quinones forcing a strong save from Kim.

After a relatively even first half, Mexico showed greater attacking intent following the interval and were rewarded with the winning goal.

The result moves Mexico into the knockout rounds as Group A winners. They will remain in Mexico for their Round of 32 match, where they are set to face one of the tournament’s third-placed qualifiers.

South Korea remain second in the group with three points and still have a chance to advance. The Czech Republic and South Africa are also in contention after their earlier 1-1 draw.

Mexico will conclude their group-stage campaign against the Czech Republic, while South Korea will face South Africa in a crucial final-round fixture.