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MEXICO sealed top spot in Group A with a flawless campaign after a commanding 3-0 victory over the Czech Republic at the Estadio Azteca, securing their place in the last 32 of the World Cup and underlining their status as one of the tournament’s early form teams.
The hosts delivered a controlled and clinical performance to maintain a perfect record in the group stage, while the Czech Republic exited the competition after finishing bottom of the standings.
AFP reported Mateo Chávez breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute, giving Mexico the lead after a sustained spell of pressure that exposed gaps in the Czech defence. The breakthrough shifted momentum firmly in favour of the hosts, who doubled their advantage just six minutes later when Julián Quiñones capitalised on defensive uncertainty to extend the lead.
Mexico completed a dominant evening in stoppage time when Álvaro Fidalgo struck in the 94th minute to round off a comprehensive victory and spark celebrations among the home crowd.
The match also carried a notable milestone as veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa was introduced in the second half, marking another appearance at a World Cup finals at the age of 40 and extending his record to a sixth tournament involvement.
Mexico will return to action at the same venue on June 30 in the knockout stage, buoyed by momentum and a perfect group-stage record, while the Czech Republic bow out after a disappointing campaign. - June 25, 2026
