Co-hosts Mexico delivered an impressive performance in front of their home supporters to defeat Ecuador 2-0 and book a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Round of 32 clash, played at a packed Azteca Stadium before 80,824 fans, was delayed by an hour due to severe thunderstorms in Mexico City, but once play got underway, the hosts wasted little time taking control.
Backed by a vibrant home crowd, Mexico started brightly and overwhelmed Ecuador with high pressing, quick transitions and attacking intensity.
Their dominance paid off in the 22nd minute when Julián Quiñones produced a brilliant finish after cutting inside from the left and firing into the top corner to hand the hosts the lead.
Mexico continued to dictate the tempo and doubled their advantage before the break through veteran striker Raúl Jiménez.
The goal came after another defensive lapse from Ecuador, with Quiñones turning provider as he set up Jiménez to finish confidently and put Mexico firmly in command.
Ecuador attempted to respond after half-time but struggled to create clear openings as Mexico remained organised and controlled possession effectively.
The hosts slowed the pace when necessary and denied Ecuador any real momentum as they comfortably managed the contest.
The South American side’s frustration eventually spilled over in stoppage time when defender Piero Hincapié was shown a straight red card following an altercation with Mexico substitute Santiago Giménez.
The dismissal capped a disappointing evening for Ecuador, whose World Cup journey ended at the knockout stage.
For Mexico, the victory keeps alive hopes of a memorable tournament on home soil as Javier Aguirre’s side advances into the last 16.
The co-hosts could now be set for a blockbuster showdown against England if the Three Lions overcome DR Congo in their Round of 32 encounter.