Mexico makes history: First team since 1990 to open World Cup with four clean sheets

Mexico City: Mexico has firmly established itself as a formidable force at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a historic place in the Round of 16 after a convincing 2-0 victory over Ecuador. The triumph at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City not only propelled the co-hosts into the next stage of the tournament but also saw them achieve a rare defensive feat not witnessed in decades.

A Historic Defensive Achievement

By keeping a clean sheet against Ecuador, Mexico became the first team since Italy in the 1990 FIFA World Cup to win their opening four matches of a tournament without conceding a single goal.

Mexico is only the fourth side in the entire history of the World Cup to achieve such an opening run without allowing an opponent to find the back of the net. The consistency of Mexico's defensive line throughout the tournament has been a primary driver of their success, providing a stable platform for their attacking players to flourish.

Momentum on Home Soil

The victory over Ecuador was particularly poignant for the home supporters, as it ended a forty-year wait for a knockout-stage win in the World Cup. The last time Mexico tasted victory in a knockout-stage match was during the 1986 edition—the last time the country hosted the tournament—when they defeated Bulgaria 2-0 at the same venue.

Despite a one-hour delay to kick off due to inclement weather, Mexico dominated proceedings from the start. First-half goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez proved decisive, effectively neutralising an Ecuadorian side that struggled to cope with the intensity of the home team.

Eyes on the Round of 16

Having successfully navigated the Round of 32, Mexico now prepares for a high-stakes Round of 16 encounter. The team is scheduled to return to the Estadio Azteca this coming Monday IST, where they will face either England or the Democratic Republic of the Congo.