United States Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson congratulated Mexico on securing a spot in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a 2-0 victory over Ecuador. He also expressed optimism that the United States would advance alongside their North American neighbors.
Ambassador's Message of Support
In a post on X, Johnson wrote: "Congratulations, Mexico, on today's victory and for advancing to the next round! Tomorrow it's the U.S. National Team's turn to win and join them there." The United States is set to face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 on Tuesday at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium.
Mexico's Historic Knockout Win
The victory marked Mexico's first FIFA World Cup knockout-stage win since 1986 and ended an eight-match streak of eliminations in knockout fixtures, the longest such run in World Cup history, according to OptaJoe. The match was delayed by an hour due to heavy rain and lightning, but El Tri maintained their unbeaten run and defensive solidity.
Match Highlights
Mexico took the lead before halftime when Julian Quinones capitalized on a defensive error. Raul Jimenez doubled the advantage later in the first half, giving Mexico a comfortable lead at the break. Ecuador controlled more possession after the restart but could not breach Mexico's defense. Ecuador's night worsened in stoppage time when defender Piero Hincapie was shown a red card.
Record-Breaking Performances
The victory was Mexico's fourth consecutive win of the tournament, extending their streak without conceding a goal. Teenage midfielder Gilberto Mora made history at 17 years and 259 days old, becoming the second-youngest player to start a World Cup knockout match, behind only Pele (17 years and 239 days in 1958), according to ESPN FC. Raul Jimenez, at 35 years and 56 days, became the oldest Mexican to score in a World Cup knockout match and the first Mexican in his 30s to do so, per ESPN Insights.
Looking Ahead
Mexico will next face the winner of the England-DR Congo Round of 32 match as they continue their campaign on home soil. The United States will aim to join them in the Round of 16 with a victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
