Co-hosts Mexico kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in style with a 2-0 victory over nine-man South Africa in the tournament’s opening match at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Thursday.
The hosts made an electric start in front of a packed home crowd, taking the lead after just nine minutes. South Africa midfielder Yaya Sithole was dispossessed by Erik Lira, allowing Julian Quinones to pounce and fire a powerful effort through the legs of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams for the first goal of the 2026 World Cup.
Quinones came close to doubling Mexico’s advantage before halftime, but his first-time strike from 12 yards crashed against the post.
South Africa’s hopes suffered a major setback five minutes into the second half when Sithole was shown a straight red card for bringing down Brian Gutierrez as the Mexico attacker raced clear on goal.
Mexico capitalised on their numerical advantage and secured the win through veteran striker Raul Jimenez. The 35-year-old powered home a header from Roberto Alvarado’s cross to score his first-ever World Cup goal and make it 2-0.
The match became increasingly ill-tempered as South Africa finished with nine men. Substitute Themba Zwane was sent off after being adjudged to have slapped Alvarado in an off-the-ball incident.
Mexico were also reduced to 10 men late in the contest when defender Cesar Montes received a red card for a foul on Khuliso Mudau, but the hosts comfortably saw out the match to secure all three points.
The game also marked a historic moment for Mexico as 17-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora became the second-youngest player ever to feature in a World Cup finals match, behind only Pele, who appeared at the 1958 tournament at the same age.
