Mexico Ends 40-Year Knockout Stage Drought with Victory Over Ecuador

In a historic match, Mexico has ended a 40-year drought in the World Cup knockout stages by defeating Ecuador 2-0. With goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez, Mexico advances to the round of 16, marking a significant milestone for the team and its fans. Coach Javier Aguirre, who was part of the last winning team in 1986, expressed the emotional significance of this victory. The match, delayed by a thunderstorm, showcased Mexico's resilience and determination as they aim for further success in the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 1, 2026, 12:47 IST

Historic Win for Mexico in World Cup Knockout Stage

Mexico City: After a long wait of 40 years, Mexico has finally triumphed in the knockout stages of the World Cup. Fans of El Tri have endured heartbreak on seven occasions at this critical juncture, but that narrative has changed.

On Tuesday night, Mexico secured a 2-0 victory over Ecuador, with Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez scoring within a nine-minute window during the first half, propelling the team into the round of 16.

Quinones netted the first goal in the 22nd minute, followed by Jimenez's contribution in the 31st minute. This marks Mexico's first knockout-stage win since they defeated Bulgaria in 1986 when they hosted the tournament. Notably, Mexico's coach, Javier Aguirre, was part of that 1986 squad.

"This victory means a lot to me, especially since I was part of teams that couldn't advance in the knockout stages," Aguirre expressed. "Reaching the round of 16 is a significant achievement, and the connection with our fans feels like family. It's truly spectacular."

From 1994 to 2018, Mexico faced seven consecutive defeats at this stage and did not progress beyond the group stage in 2022.

Aguirre, who resumed his role as head coach in August 2024, previously served as an assistant in 1994 and was the head coach in 2002 and 2010.

"We will remain vigilant until Sunday, focusing on player recovery and aiming for another win," Aguirre added.

Quinones, who has now scored three goals in this tournament, ranks as Mexico's second-highest scorer in World Cup history, trailing only Luis "Matador" Hernandez and Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez, both of whom have four goals.

Having been the top scorer in the Saudi Pro League last season, Quinones has emerged as a vital asset for Mexico's attack, which had been lacking in previous tournaments.

"I'm just thrilled with the result; that's what matters most right now," said Quinones, who is making his World Cup debut with Mexico.

The 29-year-old forward moved from Colombia to Mexico at 17 and became a naturalized citizen in 2023.

"Life is about perseverance and fighting for what you want, and I'm seizing this opportunity," he remarked.

Jimenez scored his second goal of the tournament, bringing his total to 47 goals for the national team, surpassing Jared Borgetti. He is just five goals shy of tying "Chicharito" Hernandez for the all-time scoring record for Mexico.

Mexico's next match will be at home on Sunday against the winner of the upcoming match between England and Congo.

Competing at the legendary Azteca Stadium, Mexico boasts an impressive unbeaten record in 10 World Cup matches held there, with only two official losses, the last being a qualifying defeat to Honduras on September 6, 2013.

With this victory, Mexico has extended its unbeaten streak to 12 games, dating back to a friendly loss against Paraguay in November.

Additionally, Mexico made history by becoming the first CONCACAF team to eliminate a CONMEBOL team in a World Cup knockout match, breaking a streak of five consecutive losses in such encounters.

The match was delayed by an hour due to a thunderstorm, marking the second weather-related delay in the tournament, following a storm that interrupted the France-Iraq match in Philadelphia on June 22.