Mexico Celebrates Historic World Cup Victory Over Ecuador

MEXICO CITY — Mexico finally ended a 40-year World Cup drought. After facing defeat in seven previous knockout stage attempts, the national team, El Tri, triumphed over Ecuador with a decisive 2-0 victory on Tuesday night.

In a spectacular first half, Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez scored two crucial goals. Quiñones put Mexico on the scoreboard in the 22nd minute, and Jiménez solidified the lead nine minutes later. This victory marks the first knockout stage win since defeating Bulgaria in the round of 16 in 1986, when Mexico hosted the tournament.

“It means a lot to me because I am one of those who could not progress in the knockout stage,” said Mexico coach Javier Aguirre. “We are in the round of 16 and it is happening a great connection with the fans. We are like a family. It is spectacular.”

The team had fallen at the same juncture in World Cups from 1994 to 2018 and failed to make it past the group stage in 2022. Under the leadership of Aguirre, who returned as head coach in 2024, Mexico aims for further success.

With this year’s World Cup expanded to 48 teams, the addition of the round of 32 precedes the traditional round of 16. Aguirre remained focused on the task ahead, stating, “We will be on high alert from here until Sunday. We will try to have the players recover from this and we will see if we are able to win again.”

Quiñones and Jiménez Shine

Quiñones’ success continues with him becoming Mexico’s second-highest World Cup scorer, following behind legends Luis “Matador” Hernández and Javier “Chicharito” Hernández. His recent naturalization in 2023 and performance as the lead scorer in the Saudi Pro League showcase his contributions to the team.

I am just happy with the result, that is all that matters now,” Quiñones said.

Meanwhile, Jiménez scored his second tournament goal, raising his tally with the national team to 47, approaching Chicharito’s record.

Upcoming Match and Celebrations

Mexico looks forward to another match at home against the winner between England and Congo. The victory extends Mexico’s unbeaten run at the Azteca Stadium, a venue where they hold an impressive record of 10 World Cup matches without a loss, their last official defeat dating back to September 2013.

Adding to the excitement, Mexico became the first CONCACAF team to eliminate a CONMEBOL team in a World Cup knockout match, defeating a South American team, a feat achieved only in the sixth such encounter.

The game experienced a delay of one hour due to a thunderstorm, continuing a trend of weather interruptions in the tournament, including a significant suspension during the France-Iraq match in Philadelphia.

Fiesta on the Streets

The post-match celebrations echoed in every corner. Thousands gathered along Reforma avenue, rejoicing in the victory. Cheering families and friends filled bars and fan zones.

This is so exciting,” said Denisse Ildefonso, a 20-year-old cook and devoted fan. “We did it! We did it!”

People celebrated their national pride, with Erick Rubio, a 22-year-old college student, exclaiming, I feel so proud to be Mexican.