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France 24
France 24
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FRANCE 24

World Cup 2026: Mexico beat Ecuador to reach last 16 and end 40-year knockout drought

The Mexican football team beat Ecuador at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico to reach final 16 in the World Cup.
The Mexican football team beat Ecuador at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico to reach final 16 in the World Cup, on June 30, 2026. © Raquel Cunha, Reuters

Mexico ended a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout-stage victory on Tuesday, beating Ecuador 2-0 to reach the last 16. Goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez secured El Tri's first win beyond the group stage since the 1986 tournament they hosted.

Mexico turned on the style at the iconic Azteca Stadium on Tuesday, brushing Ecuador aside 2-0 to end a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout victory.

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