Playing in front of a jubilant home crowd at the Estadio Azteca, the co-hosts delivered one of their most complete performances of the tournament after the match was delayed by an hour because of severe weather.

Julian Quinones inspired the victory, opening the scoring before setting up Raul Jimenez as Mexico comfortably progressed to the last 16 for the first time since the 1986 World Cup.

The hosts controlled the contest from the opening whistle and almost made an early breakthrough when Jimenez headed over before 17-year-old Gilberto Mora, making history as one of the youngest starters in a World Cup knockout match, flashed an effort narrowly wide.

Ecuador briefly threatened through John Yeboah, whose angled effort struck the outside of the post, but Mexico's relentless pressure soon paid off.

Quinones collected Roberto Alvarado's pass on the left, drove into the penalty area and unleashed a powerful finish beyond Hernan Galindez to ignite celebrations inside the Azteca.

Mexico doubled their advantage just after the half-hour mark when Quinones turned provider, picking out Jimenez, who rifled an unstoppable finish into the top corner.

Ecuador attempted to respond after the interval, but Mexico remained firmly in control. Raul Rangel produced an important save to deny Yeboah, while Cesar Montes twice came close to extending the lead at the other end.

Kevin Rodriguez missed Ecuador's best chance late on before Piero Hincapie was sent off in stoppage time, capping a frustrating evening for Sebastian Beccacece's side.

Mexico will now face either England or DR Congo in the Round of 16 as hopes continue to grow of another memorable run on home soil.

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