Mexico end 40-year World Cup knockout wait with 2-0 win over Ecuador

Mexico beat Ecuador 2-0 on Tuesday to reach the FIFA World Cup last 16, ending a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout-stage victory.

Kick-off in Mexico City was delayed by thunderstorms, but the tournament co-hosts took the lead through Julián Quiñones before veteran striker Raúl Jiménez doubled the advantage after capitalising on a defensive error. 

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Ecuador enjoyed more possession after the break and struck the post, but struggled to find a way past Mexico’s disciplined defence. Defender Piero Hincapié was sent off in stoppage time.

Seventeen-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora also impressed in another assured display, continuing the performances that have drawn widespread attention during the tournament.

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Mexico also became the first team since Italy at the 1990 World Cup to win four consecutive matches without conceding a goal.

Javier Aguirre’s side will face the winner of Wednesday’s Round of 32 meeting between England and DR Congo for a place in the quarter-finals.