Mexico break knockout barrier as Mora shines against Ecuador

Mexico beat Ecuador in the World Cup last 32 at the Azteca, ending a knockout-stage wait that had lasted since 1986. Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez supplied the goals on a night that began with a weather delay and ended with a major emotional release for El Tri.

The match was held up for about an hour by an electric storm, but Mexico started sharply once play began. Seventeen-year-old Gilberto Mora was central to their best first-half work, linking play from midfield and helping Javier Aguirre’s side play with a freedom not always seen in the group stage.

Quiñones opened the scoring after Jesús Gallardo released him into space, while Jiménez added a second following an Ecuador defensive mistake involving Joel Ordóñez. Ecuador had openings through John Yeboah and substitute Kevin Rodríguez, but Raúl Rangel’s save before half-time helped Mexico keep control.

The result carries extra weight for Aguirre, whose previous spells as Mexico coach included earlier World Cup exits. Mexico’s next opponent will be England if they beat DR Congo, with Aguirre saying he would watch that match closely as his team tries to preserve momentum.