Mexico claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over South Korea at Estadio Akron, with Luis Romo's second-half strike proving decisive in a World Cup Group Stage encounter.
Mexico dominated possession and created clear chances throughout the match. South Korea arrived with defensive intent but struggled to contain the home team's attacking threats. The encounter promised an open affair between two teams eager to make their World Cup mark.
The opening stages saw Mexico press forward with purpose. South Korea's Lee Kang-In received an early yellow card in the fourth minute for a rash challenge. Mexico controlled the ball effectively in the first half, stringing together 429 passes with 82% accuracy.
Mexico's attacking players found space consistently but lacked the final touch. Shots flew wide or were blocked as South Korea's defense held firm. The visitors managed two corner kicks but created limited openings in the opening 45 minutes.
Goalkeeper Raúl Rangel remained alert for Mexico. He made two important saves to keep the score level at the break. South Korea's goalkeeper made three saves despite seeing less of the ball.
The second half began with Mexico searching for the breakthrough. In the 50th minute, Luis Romo seized his opportunity brilliantly. The midfielder found space and struck cleanly, sending the ball past South Korea's keeper to give Mexico the lead.
Romo's goal energized the home crowd and shifted momentum decisively. Mexico pushed for a second goal to secure the victory. Romo impressed throughout his 71 minutes on the pitch, earning a rating of 8.
South Korea responded with greater urgency but faced an uphill battle. Paik Seung-Ho picked up a yellow card in the 58th minute. The visitors created nine total shots but managed only two on target.
Mexico's defense, led by Edson Álvarez and Johan Vásquez, remained solid under pressure. South Korea's attacking play improved as the match progressed, yet they could not find an equalizer. Mexico's possession advantage (42% to 58%) masked their clinical approach.
The statistics revealed Mexico's efficiency. Mexico generated 0.48 expected goals while South Korea created 0.69. However, Mexico's four shots on target proved more decisive than South Korea's two.
Mexico secured three crucial points in Group Stage play. This victory positions them well in their World Cup campaign. South Korea must regroup quickly and seek points in upcoming fixtures.
