FIFA shared a jubilant video on social media showing fans erupting in celebration across Mexico City after El Tri secured a historic 2-0 victory over Ecuador in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. The win marked Mexico's first knockout-stage triumph in 40 years, since their 1986 success.
Historic Night for El Tri
"Scenes in Mexico City! Fans celebrate an historic night as Mexico win their second-ever @FIFAWorldCup knockout match exactly 40 years after their first," FIFA posted on X, accompanying a video of the celebrations.
The victory snapped an eight-match streak of eliminations in World Cup knockout fixtures, the longest such run in the competition's history, according to OptaJoe's X handle. It was also Mexico's second-ever knockout win, the first being in 1986.
Match Details: Mexico 2-0 Ecuador
The contest, delayed by an hour due to heavy rain and lightning, saw Mexico take the lead before halftime. Julian Quinones capitalized on a defensive error to break the deadlock. Raul Jimenez then doubled the advantage later in the first half, giving the hosts a comfortable cushion at the break.
Ecuador controlled more possession after the restart and attempted a comeback, but Mexico's resolute defense held firm to secure another clean sheet. Ecuador's night worsened in stoppage time when defender Piero Hincapie received a red card.
The victory was Mexico's fourth successive win of the tournament and extended their streak without conceding a goal, reinforcing Javier Aguirre's side as one of the standout teams of the competition.
Record-Breaking Performances
Teenage midfielder Gilberto Mora made history at 17 years and 259 days old, becoming the second-youngest player ever to start a FIFA World Cup knockout match, behind only Pele, who achieved the feat at 17 years and 239 days during the 1958 tournament, according to ESPN FC's X handle.
Raul Jimenez also etched his name into the record books. At 35 years and 56 days old, he became the oldest Mexican player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match and the first Mexican in his 30s to find the net in the knockout stages, according to ESPN Insights' X handle.
Next Opponent
Mexico will next face the winner of the England-DR Congo Round of 32 encounter as they look to continue their World Cup campaign on home soil.
