Mexico has 1 foot in round of 16 after victory over South Korea

Mexico's group stage safety is now nearly assured after defeating South Korea 2-1 on Saturday.

Juan Carlos Osorio's men could have their spot in the round of 16 confirmed if Sweden avoids defeat against Germany later in the day.

South Korea pushed hard late for a potential tying goal after Tottenham Hotspur forward Heung-Min Son beat Guillermo Ochoa in the third minute of stoppage time with a fantastic left-footed curler from outside the box, though the Asian side failed to find the equaliser.

Carlos Vela opened the scoring from the penalty spot after defender Hyun-Soo Jang handled Andres Guardado's 24th-minute cross attempt. Javier Hernandez added Mexico's second in the 66th minute, finishing off a counter-attack that was initiated by Hirving Lozano's long run from his own half.

In contrast to Mexico's hopes, South Korea now needs Germany to beat Sweden to have a chance of staying alive until the final matchday. The Taegeuk Warriors would then need to defeat Die Mannschaft themselves and hope Sweden loses to Mexico, while boasting a superior goal difference among themselves, Sweden, and Germany.