Mexico fans gather at local restaurant for Round of 32 match versus Ecuador

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Mexico continued its impressive run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, defeating Ecuador 2-0 in the Round of 32 to advance to the Round of 16 and keep its unbeaten streak intact.

Fans packed bars and restaurants across the Desert Southwest to watch El Tri, which entered the match carrying momentum from a perfect group-stage performance.

Mexico was one of only three teams to win all of its group-stage matches and one of just two nations that had not conceded a goal entering the knockout rounds. The strong form had supporters optimistic that the team could secure its first World Cup knockout-stage victory in 40 years.

“The results - I mean, Mexico [didn't let up] a goal during the group stages,” fan Saul Gonzalez said before kickoff. "They scored goals and everything, and the team is really coming together. They have a very deep bench - so yeah, we're gonna win this easily. Mexico is more than prepared. They're all gonna be performing at 100% today.”

The confidence inside local watch parties only grew as the match unfolded at Mexico City Stadium.

Mexico struck first in the 22nd minute when Roberto Alvarado delivered a precise pass to Julián Quiñones. With open space ahead of him, Quiñones stopped and fired a shot into the top corner of the net to give El Tri a 1-0 lead and ignite celebrations among Mexican supporters.

Just nine minutes later, Mexico doubled its advantage. Raúl Jiménez combined with Quiñones in the attacking third, with Jiménez finding the veteran striker for another spectacular finish into the upper corner. The goal gave Mexico a commanding 2-0 lead before halftime.

The two goals proved to be more than enough for El Tri, which once again relied on its stout defense to preserve the shutout. Mexico secured the 2-0 victory over Ecuador, extending its streak without conceding a goal and continuing its undefeated run through the tournament.

With the win, Mexico advances to the Round of 16 as one of the tournament's hottest teams, carrying both momentum and confidence into the next stage of the World Cup where they'll take on England on July 5.