GUADALAJARA — A clinical second-half strike from midfielder Luis Romo propelled tournament co-hosts Mexico to a vital 1-0 victory over South Korea at the Guadalajara Stadium, securing their second consecutive win in Group A.

Javier Aguirre's side broke the deadlock in the 50th minute after a tense, physical first half dominated by heavy midfield battles. It was Luis Romo who found the crucial pocket of space inside the area to fire home a low effort, which was officially awarded following a brief VAR confirmation check. The solitary goal triggered wild celebrations among the home supporters and vindicated Aguirre's tactical adjustments, including dropping captain Edson Álvarez into a makeshift central defense to cover for the suspended César Montes.

South Korea pushed numbers forward instantly in search of an equalizer, with coach Hong Myung-bo turning to his bench by introducing both Hwang Hee-chan and Oh Hyeon-gyu to revitalize the frontline. Despite the tactical shift and late aerial pressure, talisman Son Heung-min was successfully frustrated by an organized Mexican backline. Goalkeeper Raúl Rangel stood tall to register his second clean sheet of the finals, leaving South Korea empty-handed and facing a must-win situation in their group stage finale.