Mexico 2-0 Ecuador: Quiñones and Jiménez fire co-hosts into round of 16, ending 40-year knockout curse
Mexico end a 40-year World Cup knockout curse with a dominant 2-0 win over Ecuador at the iconic Azteca Stadium, courtesy of goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez.
Mexico ended 40 years of World Cup heartbreak with a commanding 2-0 victory over Ecuador at the Azteca Stadium on June 30, 2026. Goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez in a blistering first half sent the co-hosts into the round of 16 for the first time since 1986 — and the iconic Azteca into absolute delirium.
Quiñones strikes first (22')
Julián Quiñones opened the scoring with a moment of genuine quality in the 22nd minute. The forward cut inside from the left flank and powered a shot into the top corner, leaving the Ecuador goalkeeper with no chance. A goal worthy of the stadium and the occasion.
Jiménez doubles the lead (31')
Just nine minutes later, Raúl Jiménez made it 2-0. After a slick give-and-go with Quiñones, he pounced on an Ecuadorian defensive error and rifled a shot into the corner. At 2-0 with half an hour gone, the match was effectively over and the party could begin.
Match delayed by storms
The game had been pushed back an hour by a fierce storm over Mexico City — but it only heightened the anticipation. When the match finally kicked off, the atmosphere inside the Azteca was electric from the first whistle.
Mexico's next challenge: England or DR Congo
Mexico now advance to the round of 16, where they will face the winner of England vs DR Congo. With home support and the momentum of finally breaking the curse, El Tri will enter that match with confidence and the weight of a nation behind them.
