Mexico Advances to Round of 16 as All Teams from Germany's Group Are Eliminated

Mexico secured their place in the Round of 16 after first-half goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez, who had also netted during Mexico’s opening victory against South Africa. Their win came at the expense of Ecuador.

Seventeen-year-old Mexican midfielder Gilberto Mora made history by becoming the first player to start a knockout stage match in this tournament since Pele did so back in 1958.

This outcome means every team from Germany’s group has been knocked out before the knockout phase proper. The four-time world champions were eliminated by Paraguay following a penalty shootout, while Côte d'Ivoire fell to Norway thanks to a late goal from Erling Haaland. Meanwhile, all teams from Group F were also eliminated after defeats to the Netherlands, Japan, and Sweden.

Ecuador wrapped up their World Cup without scoring in three of their four matches, with only their 2-1 victory over Germany standing out. On the other hand, Mexico remain the only team yet to concede a single goal in the competition.

The match ended controversially as former Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapié was shown a red card during injury time for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent. Mexico will carry the momentum forward with strong home support when they face the winner between England and DR Congo in the Round of 16.