By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Mexico became the first team to secure a place in the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging South Korea 1-0, while Canada and Switzerland recorded emphatic victories in an action-packed round of group-stage matches.
Co-hosts Mexico booked their spot in the last 32 courtesy of a 50th-minute strike from Luis Romo, who capitalised on a costly goalkeeping error to seal victory in Guadalajara. The result maintained Mexico’s perfect start to the tournament and confirmed Javier Aguirre’s side as Group A winners.
South Korea pushed for an equaliser late in the contest but were denied by goalkeeper Raul Rangel, leaving them needing a positive result in their final group game against South Africa to strengthen their qualification hopes.
Earlier in Group A, South Africa rescued a valuable 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic through Teboho Mokoena’s 83rd-minute penalty after Michal Sadilek had given the Europeans an early lead. The result leaves both teams with work to do heading into their final fixtures.
In Group B, Canada delivered one of the tournament’s most dominant performances, thrashing nine-man Qatar 6-0 in Vancouver. Jonathan David starred with a hat-trick, while Cyle Larin, Nathan Saliba and an own goal from Mohammad Manai completed the rout.
The victory was overshadowed by a serious-looking injury to Canadian midfielder Ismael Kone, who was stretchered off following a challenge that resulted in Qatar’s second red card. Despite the setback, Canada climbed to the top of Group B on goal difference and moved within touching distance of the knockout phase.
Switzerland also strengthened their qualification prospects with a commanding 4-1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Substitute Johan Manzambi inspired the late surge, scoring twice after coming off the bench, while Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka added further goals. Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic was sent off as the match swung decisively in Switzerland’s favour.
With one round of group fixtures remaining, Mexico have already secured progression, while Canada, Switzerland, South Korea and South Africa remain firmly in contention for places in the knockout stages.
