Kim’s spill gifts Mexico last-32 spot, Rangel’s late heroics seal win
El Tri survive a nervy group-stage test after Seung-Gyu Kim’s calamity gifts Luis Romo the winner, then Raul Rangel denies South Korea with a stunning double save in stoppage time.
Mexico secured their place in the 2026 World Cup last 32 on home soil after South Korea goalkeeper Seung-Gyu Kim gifted the winner with a costly error in the 58th minute. Kim failed to hold a Raul Jimenez header, allowing Luis Romo to tap into an empty net and put El Tri ahead. The lead held under intense pressure, with Raul Rangel producing a match-defining double save in stoppage time to preserve the 1-0 victory.
The result sends Mexico through to the knockout rounds while leaving South Korea needing a miracle to advance from the group. The match was played at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca on June 25, 2026, in front of a raucous home crowd that turned the stadium into a cauldron. South Korea dominated possession and created several half-chances, but Mexico’s compact mid-block frustrated their build-up play.
