Mexico 1-0 Korea: Romo Header Decides, Hosts Go Top with Two Wins
Luis Romo's 50th-minute header gave Mexico a 1-0 victory over Korea, securing their second straight win and top spot in Group A with 6 points.
In the second round of Group A on June 19, 2026, hosts Mexico defeated South Korea 1-0 at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara to secure their second consecutive group win. Luis Romo's 50th-minute header was the only goal, giving Mexico 6 points and top spot in Group A.
The first half saw both sides create chances but fail to break the deadlock. Korea dominated possession, but Mexico's defensive organization kept the score 0-0 at halftime.
Just five minutes into the second half, Mexico won a corner kick. Luis Romo rose highest in the box to head the ball into the net, giving Mexico a 1-0 lead. Korea pushed for an equalizer but could not find a way past the Mexican defense, and the score remained 1-0 until the final whistle.
Statistically, Korea had 9 total shots (2 on target) compared to Mexico's 8 (4 on target). Korea held 58% possession, while Mexico had 42%. Korea led 2-0 in corner kicks, but Mexico's goalkeeper made 2 saves. Expected goals (xG) favored Korea 0.69 to 0.48. Korea completed 84% of their 579 passes, while Mexico completed 82% of their 429 passes.
Man of the match was Mexico midfielder Luis Romo, who scored the winning goal, provided 1 key pass, and completed 37 passes, earning a rating of 8. The 30-year-old, who plays for Cruz Azul, stands 184 cm tall and was born in Alhome. He was substituted in the 71st minute.
After this match, Mexico tops the group with 6 points from two wins, scoring 3 goals and conceding 0 (GD +3). Korea is second with 3 points (1 win, 1 loss), scoring 2 and conceding 2 (GD 0). Czech Republic and South Africa are third and fourth respectively, each with 1 point.
For Mexico, two wins almost guarantee a spot in the knockout stage; a draw against Czech Republic in the final round would secure top spot. Korea must beat South Africa in their final match and hope Mexico does not lose to Czech Republic to advance.
Mexico's next match is against Czech Republic on June 25, while Korea faces South Africa on the same day. The hosts are in high spirits, while Korea must go all out for a win to keep their qualification hopes alive.