Mexico use Azteca altitude to see off Ecuador

Mexico beat Ecuador 2-0 at the Estadio Azteca, first-half goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez carrying the hosts into the Round of 16. At 2,240 metres above sea level, the Azteca's altitude taxes visiting legs and hands acclimatised Mexico a real edge — and the hosts, who have never lost a World Cup match at the stadium, controlled throughout after becoming the first Mexican side to win all three group games.

How it unfolded: an early Mexican double

Julian Quinones opened the scoring on 22 minutes with a sharp finish, and Raul Jimenez doubled the lead on 31 to put Mexico in command inside the opening half-hour. Two up early, the hosts managed the game with composure, using the conditions to see out a comfortable win. Ecuador, impressive in the group stage, struggled to build pressure in the thin air.

Context: a fortress at altitude

The Azteca's 2,240-metre altitude was again decisive — one of the game's most demanding venues, where Mexico's familiarity tells. Ecuador, who had beaten Germany in the group, could not cope on the day. For Mexico the milestones mount: a first perfect group stage now followed by a knockout win, at their spiritual home.

The next step: Mexico await England or DR Congo

Mexico advance to face the winner of England against DR Congo on July 5; Ecuador are eliminated. Our forecast of under 2.5 goals landed in a controlled 2-0 win, as the hosts used the Azteca altitude to manage the contest exactly as the numbers suggested.