Goals from Quiñones and Jiménez give the hosts the perfect start as South Africa finish with nine men in the opening match of the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially got underway with a winning start for host nation Mexico, who defeated South Africa 2-0 in front of an electric home crowd.
Julián Quiñones opened the scoring early and veteran striker Raúl Jiménez sealed the victory in the second half as El Tri controlled most of the contest. South Africa’s task became increasingly difficult after two red cards reduced Hugo Broos’ side to nine men, while Mexico also finished the match with ten players following a late dismissal.
Mexico immediately imposed its rhythm and found the breakthrough after just nine minutes. Quiñones continued his excellent form by finishing a well-worked attacking move, sending the home supporters into celebration and giving Javier Aguirre’s team the ideal start.
South Africa attempted to respond but struggled to create clear opportunities against a disciplined Mexican defense. The African side remained competitive until the match turned dramatically after the dismissal of Sithole, leaving Bafana Bafana with ten men.
Mexico capitalized on the numerical advantage and doubled its lead in the 67th minute through Jiménez. The Fulham striker showed his experience inside the penalty area, calmly converting to effectively put the game beyond reach.
The closing stages became increasingly physical. Zwane was sent off for South Africa, reducing the visitors to nine men, while Mexico defender César Montes also received a red card late in the match.
Despite the late disciplinary issues, Mexico comfortably managed the final minutes and secured three important points to begin its World Cup campaign. Aguirre’s side now tops Group A after Matchday 1, while South Africa faces an uphill battle in its remaining group fixtures.
Match Report: Mexico 2-0 South Africa
Goals: 9′ Quiñones, 67′ Jiménez
Mexico (4-1-4-1): Rangel; Reyes, Montes, Vásquez, Gallardo; Lira (76′ Álvarez); Alvarado, Gutiérrez (66′ Mora), Fidalgo (66′ Chávez), Quiñones (79′ Vega); Jiménez (76′ González).
Head Coach: Javier Aguirre
South Africa (5-3-2): Williams; Mudau, Okon, Sibisi, Mbokazi, Modiba (76′ Appollis); Mokoena, Sithole, Adams (62′ Zwane); Foster (57′ Mbatha), Rayners (76′ Makgopa).
Head Coach: Hugo Broos
Referee: Wilton Pereira Sampaio
Yellow Cards: Mokoena, Gutiérrez, Sibisi
Red Cards: Sithole, Zwane, Montes
Venue: Opening Match – FIFA World Cup 2026
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