Mexico end 40-year FIFA World Cup knockout wait with victory over Ecuador

Mexico secured a memorable FIFA World Cup victory, defeating Ecuador 2-0 at the iconic Azteca Stadium to end a 40-year wait for a knockout-stage win. The round-of-32 clash was delayed by an hour because of stormy weather, but the disruption did little to affect the hosts, who started aggressively and dominated the early stages of the match. Mexico’s pressure was rewarded midway through the first half when Julian Quinones produced a powerful finish to put his team ahead. The forward later played a key role in the second goal, setting up Raul Jimenez to double Mexico’s advantage. Ecuador attempted to fight back after the break but struggled to regain control of the match as Mexico remained composed and managed the game effectively. The result marked Mexico’s first World Cup knockout victory since 1986, when the country last hosted the tournament. The win also extended their unbeaten run at Azteca Stadium in World Cup matches to 10 games. Mexico will now face either England or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Round of 16.