Mexico and South Africa booked their places in the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after securing crucial victories in their final group-stage matches, while Czech Republic and South Korea were eliminated from the tournament.
Mexico produced a dominant second-half display to defeat Czech Republic 3-0 and confirm progression into the Round of 32.
After a tightly contested first half ended goalless, Mexico returned after the break with greater intensity and finally broke the deadlock in the 55th minute through M. Chavez.
The momentum stayed with El Tri and six minutes later, J. Quinones doubled the advantage to put the contest beyond reach.
Czech Republic struggled to respond as Mexico controlled the closing stages before A. Fidalgo added a third goal deep into stoppage time to complete an emphatic victory.
The result secured qualification for Mexico and ended Czech Republic’s World Cup journey.
Elsewhere, South Africa edged South Korea 1-0 in another decisive encounter to keep their tournament hopes alive and advance into the knockout stage.
After a cagey opening half with few clear chances, T. Maseko emerged as the hero in the 63rd minute, firing home the only goal of the match.
South Korea pushed for an equaliser but could not break down a disciplined South African defence.
The victory confirmed South Africa’s place in the Round of 32, while South Korea were eliminated from the competition.
With the final results confirmed, Mexico and South Africa moved on to the knockout stage as Czech Republic and South Korea bowed out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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