Mexico Secures World Cup Last 32 Spot; Canada Celebrates First Ever Win
Mexico booked their place in the last 32 of the World Cup after a narrow 1-0 win over South Korea on Thursday. A costly mistake from South Korea’s goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu gifted Luis Romo the only goal, helping El Tri hold on in a tense match in Guadalajara.
This victory ensures Mexico will top Group A with one game left, following a 1-1 draw between South Africa and the Czech Republic earlier that day. Finishing first means they will play a third-placed team at home in Mexico City for the knockout round.
South Korea currently sit second with three points while the Czech Republic and South Africa remain in contention with one point each.
Canada Nears Last 32 After Historic 6-0 Win Over Qatar
In Vancouver, co-hosts Canada celebrated their first World Cup victory ever, dominating a depleted nine-man Qatar side 6-0 in Group B. Previously, Canada had lost all six of their World Cup matches across 1986 and 2022.
The match was electrified by a hat-trick from Juventus forward Jonathan David, with single goals from Cyle Larin, Nathan Saliba, and an own goal by Qatar’s Mohammad Manai sealing the result. The win leaves Canada just needing a point against Switzerland to top the group.
The celebration was tempered by a serious injury to midfielder Ismael Kone, who suffered a suspected broken leg after a harsh tackle from Qatar’s Assim Madibo in the 51st minute. Madibo’s yellow card was upgraded to red following the challenge. Kone was stretchered off with oxygen support, visibly waving to fans as he left the field.
"It was right in front of us, and everyone could hear the bone snap," said Canada coach Jesse Marsch. "He will prepare for surgery. It's a big loss for us because Ismael is a core part of our team."
Switzerland Revives Campaign with Convincing Win Over Bosnia-Herzegovina
Also in Group B action, Switzerland bounced back strongly by defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1 at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Johan Manzambi scored twice while Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka added late goals.
Bosnia, who upset Italy in qualifying, face a tough road ahead with just one point from two games after this loss.
South Africa Holds Czech Republic to Draw, Keeps Qualification Hopes Alive
Earlier in Atlanta, South Africa managed a 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic, reviving their chances of advancing. Michal Sadilek gave the Czechs the lead before Teboho Mokoena converted a late penalty to equalize.
Both teams still have a shot at the last 32 but will likely need wins in their final Group A fixtures to progress.
