• Mexico secured a 2-0 victory over Ecuador to reach the World Cup last 16.
• The win ended a 40-year drought in knockout stage victories for the team.
• Goals were scored by Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez in the first half.
• The match was delayed by thunderstorms, but the atmosphere was electric with over 80,000 fans at the Azteca Stadium.
• Ecuador's exit was marked by a red card for Piero Hincapie late in the game.

Mexico celebrated a resounding 2-0 victory over Ecuador, advancing to the last 16 of the World Cup, ending a 40-year knockout drought. The match took place at the iconic Azteca Stadium, which was filled with an electrifying atmosphere, with fans creating a "sea of green" to support the team, according to Channel News Asia and SCMP.

The match started delayed due to adverse weather conditions, but Mexico quickly established their dominance. Julián Quiñones opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a powerful strike, followed by Raúl Jiménez's goal nine minutes later, driving Mexico to a comfortable lead. This win marked the first knockout stage victory for Mexico since 1986, when they last hosted the tournament, according to NPR and Al Jazeera.

Throughout the match, the co-hosts exhibited formidable play, taking full advantage of their home field in front of more than 80,000 supporters. Quiñones not only scored but also assisted Jiménez's goal, enhancing his status as a key player for Mexico, having already netted three goals in the tournament, according to SCMP and NPR.

Despite trailing, Ecuador attempted to mount a comeback but struggled to create significant chances against a disciplined Mexican defense. The match concluded under tense circumstances, with Ecuador's Piero Hincapie receiving a red card in injury time after a contentious exchange with Santiago Giménez, which capped a disappointing night for the visitors, according to Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.

Looking ahead, Mexico's next challenge will be against the winner of the match between England and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as they hope to continue their strong run in the tournament, relying on the fervent support of their fans, according to SCMP and NPR.