MEXICO CITY — Co-host nation Mexico launched the 2026 FIFA World Cup in spectacular fashion on Thursday, defeating South Africa 2–0 in a historic tournament opener at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
A capacity crowd of 80,824 spectators witnessed an exuberant start to the largest World Cup in history. Mexico dominated the early proceedings, breaking the deadlock in the 9th minute when forward Julián Quiñones finished a clinical strike through the legs of South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. The hosts maintained their pressure throughout the first half, with South Africa struggling to mount a significant attacking response.
The match took a chaotic turn shortly after halftime. South African midfielder Sphephelo Sithole was shown a straight red card in the 49th minute for denying a clear goal scoring opportunity after a foul on Brian Gutiérrez.
Despite the man advantage, Mexico remained methodical, eventually doubling their lead in the 66th minute when veteran striker Raúl Jiménez headed home a pinpoint cross. Jiménez’s goal his 46th for the national team marked his first-ever score at a World Cup, tying him with Jared Borgetti for second place in Mexico’s all-time international scoring record.
The contest concluded with a flurry of disciplinary actions that made history for the wrong reasons. In the 84th minute, South African substitute Themba Zwane was dismissed following a VAR review for violent conduct after an off-the-ball incident with Roberto Alvarado. Minutes later, Mexican captain César Montes was also sent off in injury time for a rash challenge. The issuance of three red cards set a new record for the most dismissals in a FIFA World Cup opening match.
With this result, Mexico secures their first-ever victory in a World Cup opening game, breaking a long-standing trend of draws and losses. The team now sits at the top of Group A with three points. Mexico is scheduled to face South Korea next Thursday in Guadalajara, while South Africa looks to reset as they prepare to take on the Czech Republic in Atlanta on the same day.
