Mexico cruise past South Africa in fiery World Cup 2026 opener

Mexico made a strong statement in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating South Africa 2-0 at a packed Estadio Azteca.

Julian Quiñones scored the first goal of the tournament before veteran striker Raul Jimenez doubled the lead, as the co-hosts controlled proceedings from start to finish in front of a jubilant home crowd.

South Africa’s challenge unravelled in the second half, with Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane both shown red cards, leaving Bafana Bafana to finish the match with nine men.

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Zwane was dismissed for a late altercation involving a slap on Mexico goalkeeper Luis Malagón, compounding a difficult evening for the African side, who were making their first World Cup appearance since hosting the tournament in 2010.

Mexico dominate historic opener

The co-hosts dictated tempo throughout at the iconic Azteca Stadium, using home support to overwhelm South Africa and secure an early advantage in Group A.

Despite occasional resistance, Mexico’s superiority eventually told, with Quiñones breaking the deadlock before Jimenez added a decisive second goal to settle nerves.

South Africa struggled to gain a foothold and were largely reduced to defending deep as Mexico pressed forward in waves.

Red cards derail South Africa

The visitors’ hopes effectively ended after the double sending-offs, which left them significantly depleted for the final stages of the match.

Mexico also had a player sent off late on, as Cesar Montes was dismissed for a foul on Khuliso Mudau, but the hosts comfortably preserved their two-goal cushion.

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