Mexico end 40-year knockout drought with victory over Ecuador

Staff Report: PNN

Despite heavy rain delaying kickoff by an hour, Mexico defeated Ecuador 2–0 to reach the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 and end a 40-year winless streak in knockout matches.

The match was held at Azteca Stadium on Wednesday (July 1).

Mexico last hosted the World Cup in 1986, when they defeated Bulgaria 2–0 in the Round of 16. Since then, they had failed to win a knockout match across seven consecutive World Cups.

Mexico dominated from the start. Julian Quiñones scored in the 22nd minute, followed by Raul Jimenez doubling the lead in the 31st minute.

Ecuador had more possession but failed to convert chances, managing only one shot on target.

In stoppage time, Ecuador were reduced to 10 men after Pierre Hincapié received a red card following VAR review.

Seventeen-year-old Gilberto Mora made history by becoming the second youngest player ever to start a World Cup knockout match after Pelé.

Mexico will face either England or DR Congo in the next round.