Mexico became the fifth country to qualify for the 2018 World Cup on Friday night with a 1-0 win over Panama at Estadio Azteca in CONCACAF play.
El Tri joined Russia (host nation), Brazil, Iran and Japan in esteemed company with the start of the international spectacular now less than a year away.
The victory also pushed Mexico three points clear of Costa Rica atop the hexagonal qualifying standings after Los Ticos shocked the United States with a 2-0 triumph earlier Friday in Harrison, New Jersey.
Panama, which had a chance to make a big move in the table, will continue to occupy fifth place with seven points following the narrow loss.