After a delay of almost an hour due to a thunderstorm that forced the activation of the FIFA security protocol, Mexico responded with authority and took control of the duel against Ecuador at the Mexico City Stadium.
El Tri found the way to the goal in the 22nd minute, when Julian Quiñones A Mexican offensive culminated to open the scoring and unleash the euphoria of the fans who filled the stadium despite the inclement weather.
The local superiority was reflected nine minutes later. To the 31′, Raul Jimenez extended the lead to 2-0 and put Mexico in an unbeatable position to seal their qualification.
With the advantage, the team led by Javier Aguirre managed the pace of the match through ball possession and high pressure that made the Ecuadorian exit difficult. Ecuador tried to react with quick transitions, but found few spaces against a Mexican defense that maintained order throughout the first half.
Quiñones once again was one of the most influential players of the tricolor attack. His mobility between the lines, speed and ability to generate danger constantly complicated the Ecuadorian defense, while Jiménez provided experience and forcefulness in the rival area.
The meeting began late due to a thunderstorm in the south of the Mexican capital. FIFA temporarily suspended the start of the match as a preventive measure and authorized the start only when weather conditions allowed the safety of players, referees and fans to be guaranteed.
Mexico maintained the advantage of 2-0 over Ecuador at the end of the game and won the ticket to the quarter finals of the 2026 World Cup, to its fifth match. Now wait for a rival to come out of the key England vs. Democratic Republic of the Congo.