El Tri were sensational from the first minute, taking it to the South Americans for much of the 90 minutes


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For the first time since hosting the 1986 World Cup, Mexico are moving on in the knockout stages.

Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Tuesday, following an hour delay due to inclement weather. Forwards Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez recorded goals in the opening half to seal El Tri's place in the round of 16.

Quinones scored the opening goal after a through ball from Roberto Alvarado, and Jimenez doubled the scoreline with a quick give-and-go with Quinones inside the box. The result extends Mexico's winning streak in the tournament to four and keeps the host nation's defensive record spotless.

They will face the winner of England vs. DR Congo back in Estadio Azteca on Sunday.

Aguirre gets to fifth World Cup game as manager
Head coach Javier Aguirre knows what it feels like to be in a fifth World Cup game as a player. He was on the squad in 1986 when they were eliminated by Germany. He also knows what it's like to fall short of that accomplishment. He was on the sidelines coaching in 2002 and 2010 and failed to get past the round of 16 in the previous seven-game format of the tournament.

Aguirre's third stint as head coach continues to be a magical one. Not only is he going back to a fifth World Cup game and with a ton of momentum after winning a knockout game, but he also welcomed a third grandchild before the game.

"It means a lot to me, particularly because I am one of those who was never able to reach the fifth match (as a coach). It happened to me in South Korea, and it happened to me in South Africa. You can have a good group stage and then get stuck. But today was huge," Aguirre said.

The manager is often straightforward in his press conferences but has found himself slightly more vulnerable and open with the media throughout the tournament, recognizing the moment in front of him and the team.

"I can tell you that this team deserves what is happening. The big connection with fans and playing in the World Cup today. We stand among the top 16 now, have been together a long time, and we still like each other," Aguirre joked after the game.

"We are a true family, it's difficult to find a true family in football. But we're a big family. Those who play, those who are on the pitch, those who are on the bench, to those on the staff, and those who are backstage ... and I can say that Mexican fans deserve a night like this," he said.

Mexico's teenage standout
Gilberto Mora was fresh off a breakout performance against Czechia last week and earned the knockout round start against Ecuador. The 17-year-old is the second-youngest player (17 years and 259 days) to start a World Cup knockout stage match, only behind Pelé in 1958 (17 years and 239 days).

He played 58 minutes and completed 88% of his passes, recorded two shots, and won set pieces with his elusiveness causing trouble for Ecuador. He looks increasingly comfortable in the midfield alongside stalwart Erik Lira and can function as a higher or lower player in the middle if needed.

El Tri have their attacking duo
Forwards Quinones and Jimenez have finally given El Tri fans something else to cheer for besides solid defense. An attacking duo that can score goals in a World Cup, this team can make even more noise with their fantastic form and cohesion.

In Quinones' case, he scored the opening goal of the tournament and is quietly putting together a golden ball resume of his own this World Cup. He scored the first goal against Ecuador and delivered the assist on Jimenez's goal. His performance in the round of 32 means that he has four goal contributions already and has matched Luis Hernandez's 1998 record for the most contributions on record in a single World Cup since 1966 for a Mexican player.

With his ability to create his own shot or set up others, it's helped open things up for Jimenez as well, who now has two goals in the tournament.

There's no place like Mexico
If there were nerves or doubts, it was due to the magnitude of the moment, not because of the familiar opponent or limited experience. El Tri's efforts on Tuesday night shattered any questions on their place in this tournament. They are co-hosts, they are aware of the moment, and they believe.

And with them, they have the entire nation and its diaspora following along, cheering and emoting through nervy opening games, cagey matches, breakout moments, and knockout rounds. Estadio Azteca delivered on its historic promise that no matter the game, you will get a show.

The country is in the midst of hosting a third World Cup on its soil. This time, a tri-host with the United States and Canada. But Como Mexico no hay dos (There's no place like Mexico), and its national team is embracing all the energy and excitement that comes with the honor of hosting and embracing the challenge. They've also showcased just how overwhelming the home advantage can be for visiting teams.

The squad is now on a four-game win streak, with four clean sheets, and opposing sides struggle with the rough environments, and in the well-documented case of Mexico City, the altitude. El Tri have already flexed defensive muscle, created chances and goals, crowned new legends, and introduced next-gen faces of the program.

Mexico have historically done well in the home World Cups, making the quarterfinals in 1970 and 1986 but failed to reach a fifth knockout round game in later tournaments. Now, a current generation of fans can say they lived to see Mexico reach a fifth World Cup game in their lifetimes.

What's next?
Mexico awaits the winner of England vs. DR Congo and will host the round of 16 match at Estadio Azteca on Sunday, July 5.

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Posted by Temmy
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