Mexico emerged victorious in Group A of the 2026 World Cup, completing an impeccable group stage with three wins, six goals scored, and none conceded, amassing 9 points to confidently lead the group. The final standings were confirmed this Wednesday on the last day of the group stage.
The simultaneous matches of the third round took place at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City and the BBVA Stadium in Monterrey. Mexico triumphed with a 3-0 victory over the Czech Republic at the Azteca, while South Africa edged out South Korea 1-0 in Monterrey, finalizing all group positions.
The pivotal moment came in the 62nd minute at BBVA, with Thapelo Maseko finding the net from the center of the box with a left-footed strike during a counterattack, marking the only goal of the match. This goal dashed South Korea's hopes of finishing second and secured the runner-up spot for the Bafana Bafana. Maseko was substituted by Iqraam Rayners just a minute after scoring.
Following these results, the standings were as follows: Mexico first with 9 points, South Africa second with 4, South Korea third with 3, and the Czech Republic last with 1.
The Czech Republic was eliminated from the tournament after managing only one draw in three matches and conceding six goals. Their sole point came in the second round, when they drew 1-1 with South Africa at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Despite two losses, South Korea advances provisionally as one of the best third-placed teams, thanks to the 48-team format of the 2026 World Cup, which allows the top eight third-placed teams to proceed. The South Koreans must wait for all groups to finish to confirm their qualification and determine their opponent in the round of 32.
Mexico had already secured their place in the knockout stage as of June 18, during the second round, becoming the first team to qualify for the tournament. Under the guidance of Javier Aguirre, Mexico also ended a historical streak of seven World Cup opening matches without a win, defeating South Africa 2-0 in the first round.
As for the round of 32 matchups, South Africa will face Canada — the second-place team from Group B — on Sunday, June 28, at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, marking the first World Cup meeting between the two nations. Mexico will play on June 30 at the Azteca Stadium against the best third-placed team from Groups C, E, F, H, or I, with their opponent to be determined after the group stage concludes.
FAQs on 2026 World Cup Group A Results
How did Mexico perform in the Group A stage of the 2026 World Cup?
Mexico had a stellar performance, winning all three matches, scoring six goals, and not conceding any, leading Group A with 9 points.
Which teams advanced from Group A in the 2026 World Cup?
Mexico and South Africa advanced, with South Korea progressing provisionally as one of the top third-placed teams.
What was the key moment in South Africa's match against South Korea?
The key moment was Thapelo Maseko's goal in the 62nd minute, which secured a 1-0 win for South Africa and confirmed their second-place finish in the group.