Mexico made a perfect start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament’s opening match on Thursday night.
The hosts began on the front foot and nearly opened the scoring in the 5th minute when Raúl Jiménez connected with a first-time effort from a corner, only for South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to produce a fine diving save.
Mexico’s early pressure paid off in the 9th minute when Julián Quiñones punished a defensive error on the edge of the box, firing home to give the hosts a deserved lead.
Jiménez and Quiñones both threatened again before halftime as Mexico controlled possession and dictated the tempo of the game.
South Africa’s task became even more difficult shortly after the restart when Yaya Sithole was shown a straight red card in the 49th minute for a dangerous challenge, reducing the visitors to 10 men.
Mexico eventually doubled their advantage in the 67th minute when Jiménez rose highest to meet a cross from Roberto Alvarado, directing a precise header into the bottom corner.
The match grew more chaotic late on, with South Africa reduced further after VAR intervention led to a red card for Themba Zwane in the 84th minute.
In stoppage time, Mexico also finished with 10 men after César Montes was dismissed for a late challenge, but the result was already beyond doubt.
Despite the late drama, Mexico comfortably saw out the remaining minutes to secure a 2-0 win and an ideal start to their World Cup campaign.
