Mexico on the go

Luis Romo scored the match-winning goal for Mexico

Supporters of Mexico were over-the-moon as their team became the first country to qualify for the knock-out stages of the World Cup when they beat never-say-die South Korea at Guadalaraja, Mexico yesterday.

But there was no clear winner until the final whistle was blown as the Koreans had more ball with them to either draw level or even win.

At one stage in the dying minutes of the game the South Koreans came inches to scoring as the Mexico goal keeper clung on to the ball for dear life as an opposing player missed hitting the ball in even with his eyes closed. 

So close did the South Koreans come after both teams took half time without scoring at all.

It was in the opening minutes of the second half that the stalemate was broken when Mexico midfielder Luis Romo booted the ball into a virtually unguarded net after the South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu knocked the ball down as he collided with his team-mate Lee Gi-hyuk in the 50th minute or fifth minute of the second half to be precise.

South Korea had everything to play for and almost equalised three minutes before stoppage time came into play when Cho Gue-sung headed the ball only to find the Mexico goal keeper Raul Rangel in the way. In the next split second Rangel was able to keep out a second attempt by a South Korean attacker by grabbing the ball while being on the ground.

It was much to the relief of Mexico and the thousands of their home fans as the Mexican wave continued.

The result continued Mexico’s 100% start at the World Cup and confirmed they will advance as Group A winners.

The Mexican team after winning the match are now assured they will be in Mexico City for their last-32 and potential last-16 tie where they could face England if Thomas Tuchel’s side win their group and first knockout match.

But South Korea still remains in a good position to also advance thanks to their opening-day win over Czech Republic.

South Korea face South Africa next on Thursday while Mexico take on the Czech Republic in their final group game at the same time in Mexico City.