Luis Chavez remained hunched over on the field in agony for some time after the final horn blew.
Even though Mexico had recently defeated Saudi Arabia 2-1 in a desperate attempt to remain in the World Cup, it wasn't enough.
For the first time since 1978, Mexico failed to advance out of its group because Argentina defeated Poland 2-0 in a separate match.
Second only to Brazil, who has advanced to the round of 16 since 1986, Mexico had advanced to the knockout stage at each of the previous seven World Cups.
El Tri needed to win at Lusail Stadium in order to advance in Group C, as well as assistance from Poland, which was playing Argentina across town.
Due to Argentina's victory, goal difference entered the game, and Mexico was lacking in goals.
El Tri gained optimism when Henry Martin scored in the 48th minute, and their chances improved further when Chavez scored on a free kick four minutes later.
Mexico made a valiant effort to score another goal in the final 20 minutes, including an attempt by Uriel Antuna in the 87th that was adjudged offside, but they were unsuccessful.