Mexico completed a historic group-stage sweep at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating the Czech Republic 3-0 to finish top of Group A with maximum points, while Saudi Pro League star Julian Quinones continued his impressive tournament with another goal.
The co-hosts secured their third consecutive victory of the competition at the Estadio Azteca, becoming the first Mexico side to win all three of its World Cup group matches.
The triumph also ensured Javier Aguirre’s team progressed to the Round of 32 without conceding a single goal.
The performance of Quinones will attract particular attention.
The Al Qadsiah forward, who finished as the leading scorer in the Saudi Pro League last season, continued to demonstrate why he is regarded as one of the most dangerous attackers currently playing in the Middle East.
Quinones, who scored the opening goal of the tournament for Mexico in their first match, found the net again against the Czechs to take his tally to two goals at the World Cup.
Mexico had already secured qualification and confirmed top spot in Group A before kick-off, but there was little sign of complacency from the hosts as they delivered another disciplined and efficient display.
Mateo Chavez opened the scoring before Quinones added Mexico’s second goal of the evening.
Alvaro Fidalgo later completed the scoring to seal a comfortable victory and underline Mexico’s status as one of the most consistent teams of the group stage.
The result leaves Mexico with nine points from three matches, a perfect defensive record and growing confidence ahead of the knockout rounds.
Quinones’ contribution was another reminder of the impact he has made since arriving in Saudi Arabian football.
The striker enjoyed a prolific domestic campaign, scoring 33 goals to claim the Roshn Saudi League Golden Boot before carrying that form onto the international stage.
His latest goal further strengthened his importance to Aguirre’s side as Mexico look to mount a deep run in front of home supporters.
While the experienced forward grabbed the headlines, there were also encouraging signs for the future of Mexican football.
Seventeen-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora impressed with another composed display, showcasing maturity beyond his years in the middle of the park.
His emergence has been one of the positive stories of Mexico’s campaign so far.
There was also a memorable moment for veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.
The 40-year-old, one of the country’s most recognisable football figures, appeared as a late substitute, drawing warm applause from supporters inside the stadium.
For the Czech Republic, the defeat brought a disappointing end to their tournament.
Having entered the final round of matches needing a victory to keep their hopes alive, they struggled to match Mexico’s quality and organisation.
The result leaves the Europeans bottom of Group A with just one point from three matches and confirms their elimination from the competition.
Mexico, meanwhile, will remain in Mexico City for their Round of 32 encounter scheduled for July 1, where they will face one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
With a perfect record, a solid defence and in-form attackers such as Quinones delivering on the biggest stage, the co-hosts will head into the knockout rounds believing they can challenge some of the tournament’s strongest contenders.
