Co-hosts Mexico began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in impressive fashion with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in a dramatic Group A encounter at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Thursday.
Goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez secured all three points for the hosts in a match that produced three red cards and plenty of action before a passionate home crowd in Mexico City.
Mexico took control early in the contest when Quiñones capitalised on a costly defensive mistake by South African midfielder Sphephelo Sithole.
Erik Lira quickly regained possession after the error and fed the striker, who unleashed a powerful strike that left the goalkeeper with no chance and sent the packed stadium into celebration.
South Africa attempted to respond but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against a disciplined Mexican defence.
The visitors’ hopes of mounting a comeback suffered a major setback five minutes after halftime when Sithole was shown a straight red card for a foul on Brian Gutierrez.
Mexico failed to take immediate advantage as Jiménez could not convert the resulting free-kick, but the experienced forward made amends in the 67th minute.
Rising highest at the far post, Jiménez headed home Mexico’s second goal to effectively put the match beyond South Africa’s reach.
South Africa’s frustrations boiled over late in the game when captain Themba Zwane was sent off in the 84th minute for violent conduct, reducing his side to nine men.
Mexico also finished the match with 10 players after defender Cesar Montes received a red card during stoppage time for a foul, but the dismissal had little impact on the final outcome.
The victory gives Mexico a strong start in Group A as they continue their quest for a successful tournament on home soil.
They will next face South Korea in Guadalajara, while South Africa will look to recover from their opening defeat when they take on the Czech Republic in their second group-stage match.
Mexico’s convincing performance and attacking quality will provide encouragement to their supporters as the World Cup gathers momentum.
