Mexico betters poor South Africa in World Cup opener

Mexico launched their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in style with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in a dramatic and ill-tempered Group A opener at the Mexico City Stadium on Thursday night. 

Goals from Julián Quiñones and veteran striker Raúl Jiménez secured all three points for the hosts in front of a crowd of more than 80,000 fans, but the match will also be remembered for three second-half red cards.

The co-hosts made the perfect start to the tournament when Quiñones struck after just nine minutes. 

Midfielder Erik Lira provided the assist, after stealing the ball off defender Sithole before threading the ball to the forward to give Mexico an early advantage. 

The goal marked the earliest opening strike in a World Cup since the 2006 tournament and immediately ignited celebrations inside the packed stadium following a colourful opening ceremony featuring global music star Shakira.

South Africa struggled to create clear opportunities despite occasional moments of promise. 

Hugo Broos’ side found themselves under increasing pressure after midfielder Yandisa Sithole was shown a straight red card in the 49th minute, reducing Bafana Bafana to ten men for the remainder of the contest. 

Mexico controlled possession and continually threatened to extend their lead as the numerical advantage began to tell.

The decisive second goal arrived in the 67th minute when Raúl Jiménez capped an emotional evening by scoring the first World Cup goal of his career. 

Roberto Alvarado supplied the assist and the experienced striker made no mistake, doubling Mexico’s lead and effectively ending South Africa’s hopes of mounting a comeback. 

The goal sparked another wave of celebrations among the home supporters, who had waited years to see their team open a World Cup on home soil.

The closing stages descended into chaos as South Africa’s frustrations boiled over. 

Veteran midfielder Themba Zwane received a straight red card in the 84th minute following an altercation with Alvarado, leaving his side with just nine players. 

Matters became even more dramatic deep into stoppage time when Mexico defender César Montes was also dismissed for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity after a VAR review, ensuring both teams finished the match with reduced numbers.

Despite the late controversy, Mexico comfortably saw out the victory to move to the top of Group A and make an ideal start to their World Cup journey. 

South Africa, meanwhile, face an uphill battle to revive their campaign after suffering defeat and two costly dismissals.