Mexico Cruise South Africa to Win Opening Match of 2026 World Cup

Mexico launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in style with a convincing 2-0 victory over South Africa at the historic Estadio Azteca, becoming the first winners of the tournament.

The co-hosts made a dream start to Group A as Julian Quiñones scored the opening goal of the World Cup before veteran striker Raúl Jiménez sealed the win in the second half.

South Africa struggled to cope with the occasion and ended the match with only nine players after Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane were both sent off.

The atmosphere inside the packed stadium was electric, with more than 80,000 fans creating a deafening backdrop as Mexico took control from the opening minutes.

Quiñones broke the deadlock in the ninth minute, firing a low effort through the legs of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams after South Africa lost possession in a dangerous area.

Mexico continued to dominate possession and territory, while South Africa found it difficult to settle under the intense pressure from both the hosts and the crowd.

Things became even more difficult for the visitors shortly after halftime when Sithole was shown a red card for bringing down Brian Gutiérrez as the Mexican attacker raced through on goal.

With the numerical advantage, Mexico doubled their lead in the 67th minute. A swift counterattack ended with Roberto Alvarado delivering a precise cross that Jiménez headed into the net at the far post.

South Africa’s frustrations deepened in the 84th minute when Zwane was dismissed following a VAR review after striking Alvarado in the face with his arm.

Mexico’s evening was not entirely trouble-free, however, as defender César Montes received a late red card for a reckless challenge on Khuliso Mudau near the edge of the penalty area.

Despite finishing with ten men themselves, Mexico comfortably saw out the remaining minutes to secure three points and make an ideal start to their World Cup journey.