Mexico and South Africa have advanced from Group A at the 2026 Men’s World Cup. Czechia are eliminated, with Korea Rep in third place and left to wait to find out if they will advance.

El Tri completed the group phase with three wins from three matches, a first in their history. Following an intense opening 2-0 win over South Africa that saw three total red cards, Mexico defeated Korea Rep and Czechia. Goalkeeper Raúl RANGEL kept a clean sheet in all three matches, with veteran Guillermo OCHOA coming on late in the match against Czechia.

Bafana Bafana also made history as they advanced beyond the group phase for the first time. After earning a 1-1 draw with Czechia, they took on favoured Korea Rep on the last day of the group. Thapelo MASEKO’s goal just past the hour mark led South Africa to a 1-0 win and second place in the group.

Mexico will remain in Ciudad de México for their round of 32 match on TUE 30 JUN 2026 against a third placed team. South Africa will head to Inglewood, CA, United States for a meeting with Canada on SUN 28 JUN 2026.