Mexico cruise into Round of 32 and eliminate Czechia
Baku, June 25, AZERTAC
Mexico’s momentum continued to build as they wrapped up their FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage campaign with a third consecutive victory, comfortably defeating Czechia 3-0. The result eliminated Czechia from the tournament.
The co-hosts entered the match already assured of top spot in Group A and a place in the Round of 32, while Czechia needed a positive result to keep alive their hopes of joining El Tri in the knockout stage.
As a result, Miroslav Koubek’s side made the brighter start, with Denis Visinsky particularly lively and firing a low effort just wide of the post in the eighth minute.
Mexico gradually settled into their rhythm, however, and 10 minutes into the second half, Mateo Chavez used his pace to break in behind the defense before calmly slotting home to spark celebrations inside Mexico City Stadium.
The home supporters had barely regained their composure before Mexico struck again six minutes later, when Julian Quinones poked home from close range to make it 2-0.
The celebrations intensified further with 12 minutes remaining when Javier Aguirre introduced 40-year-old goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, who was appearing at his sixth World Cup. Alvaro Fidalgo then added a third goal in stoppage time to complete the victory.
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