Mexico made a strong statement in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating South Africa 2-0 at a packed Estadio Azteca.
Julian Quiñones scored the first goal of the tournament before veteran striker Raul Jimenez doubled the lead, as the co-hosts controlled proceedings from start to finish in front of a jubilant home crowd.
South Africa’s challenge unravelled in the second half, with Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane both shown red cards, leaving Bafana Bafana to finish the match with nine men.
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Zwane was dismissed for a late altercation involving a slap on Mexico goalkeeper Luis Malagón, compounding a difficult evening for the African side, who were making their first World Cup appearance since hosting the tournament in 2010.
Mexico dominate historic opener
The co-hosts dictated tempo throughout at the iconic Azteca Stadium,
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