Mexico made a winning start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating South Africa 2-0 in the tournament's opening match at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
The hosts began the game on the front foot and quickly found the breakthrough. Julián Quiñones showed great awareness to score the first goal of the tournament in the ninth minute, capping off a dominant opening spell from El Tri. Mexico created several more opportunities before halftime but were unable to extend their advantage.
Mexico continued to control proceedings after the break and moved a step closer to victory in the 49th minute when South Africa defensive midfielder Sfefelo Sithole was shown a straight red card for a foul during a Mexican attack.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 67th minute. Roberto Alvarado delivered a superb cross into the penalty area, and Raúl Jiménez met it with a powerful header to make it 2-0. South Africa's frustrations grew further in the 84th minute when Temba Zwane was sent off following a VAR review, reducing Bafana Bafana to nine men.
The physical contest ended with another dismissal deep into stoppage time, as Mexico defender César Montes received a red card in the second minute of added time.
Mexico comfortably saw out the remainder of the match to become the first winners of the 2026 World Cup.
