Mexico, who had opened their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Cameroon, served an early warning when Maribel Flores' right-footed rocket left the crossbar quivering in the 20th minute.

Australia’s big chance came later in the half when a Kahli Johnson cross struck the arm of Mexico defender Isabela Esquivias, resulting in a penalty after video review. Johnson stepped up to take the spot-kick, but fired over the crossbar.

Mexico reasserted their authority in the second half and took a 1-0 lead when a driving effort from Montserrat Saldivar was redirected off the post and in by Fatima Servin.

The Concacaf side then tacked on an insurance goal in second half stoppage time when Alejandra Lomeli stabbed home a cross from Natalia Colin to sew things up.

With the four best third-placed teams to also advance to the knockout stage, Australia still have a chance provided they defeat Cameroon on Friday.