Mexico ended a 40-year knockout stage drought with a convincing 2-0 victory over Ecuador at the Estadio Azteca on June 30, 2026. Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez struck in quick succession in the first half to end Mexico’s curse of never winning a knockout game since the 1986 World Cup on home soil.
Match Summary
The Azteca was electric from kick-off. Quiñones opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, converting a chance inside the box to send the home crowd into delirium. Jiménez doubled the lead just nine minutes later, adding a second to effectively kill the match before halftime. Ecuador pushed for a way back into the game in the second half but could not breach a resolute Mexico defence, and El Tri held on comfortably to advance to the Round of 16 for the first time in four decades.
Key Moments
- 22′ – Mexico GOAL: Julian Quinones (1-0)
- 31′ – Mexico GOAL: Raul Jimenez (2-0)
Final Score
Mexico 2 – 0 Ecuador
Round of 32 | Estadio Azteca, Mexico City | June 30, 2026
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