Mexico secured a flawless group-stage campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Czechia on Wednesday night at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The result ensured Mexico finished undefeated with three consecutive wins, marking the first time the team has achieved this feat in World Cup group play.
After a scoreless first half marked by a strong defensive effort from Czechia and some offensive struggles for Mexico, the match’s momentum shifted quickly in the second half. Mateo Chávez, a 22-year-old forward making his World Cup debut, opened the scoring in the 55th minute following a swift counterattack orchestrated by Luis Romo. Shortly after, Julián Quiñones, who scored earlier in the tournament, capitalized on a defensive lapse in the Czech penalty area to double the lead in the 61st minute. A stoppage-time goal from substitute Álvaro Fidalgo sealed the victory.
The game showcased both Mexico’s experience and emerging talent. Seventeen-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora became the youngest Mexican player to start at a World Cup, contributing key plays in the decisive second half. In a celebrated moment, veteran goalkeeper Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa entered the match in the 77th minute, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd of 80,824. At 40 years old, Ochoa joined an elite group of players appearing in six World Cups, including Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Ochoa, who took the captain’s armband upon entering, is expected to retire from international play following the tournament.
Mexico’s coach, Javier Aguirre, who is leading the team for the third time at a World Cup, praised Ochoa’s contributions and highlighted the team’s accomplishment of winning all group matches without conceding a goal. Mexico previously recorded two wins and a draw in group play during the 1986 and 2002 World Cups, both also under Aguirre’s involvement.
Czechia’s loss confirmed their elimination from the tournament, having earned only one point across their three matches. Meanwhile, South Africa’s 1-0 victory over South Korea in Monterrey secured their advancement as the group’s runner-up. South Korea remains in contention to move forward as one of the best third-place teams.
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the match was marred by the recurrence of a homophobic chant from parts of the Mexican crowd during the first half. The chant, a slur previously condemned and sanctioned by FIFA against the Mexican soccer federation, briefly interrupted the proceedings and drew criticism from various observers.
Looking ahead, Mexico is set to face one of the best third-place finishers in the round of 32, with the match scheduled again at Estadio Azteca on Tuesday. The team remains unbeaten in 11 matches since last November and has utilized 25 of its 26-player roster throughout the tournament.