Mexico launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in impressive fashion, defeating South Africa 2-0 in the tournament’s opening match at the Mexico City Stadium on Thursday, June 11.
The hosts wasted little time igniting celebrations among their supporters, taking the lead in the ninth minute through Julián Quiñones. The goal came after South Africa attempted to play out from the back, but Mexico’s high pressing forced a costly turnover. Érik Lira won possession before Quiñones calmly slotted the ball through the legs of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Mexico continued to control the tempo and were rewarded with a second goal in the 67th minute. Veteran striker Raúl Jiménez rose highest to meet a pinpoint cross from Roberto Alvarado, powering a header into the net to double the advantage.
South Africa’s task became even more difficult when Sphephelo Sithole was sent off early in the second half for bringing down a Mexican attacker just outside the penalty area. The dismissal shifted momentum further in Mexico’s favour as the African side struggled to regain control.
Frustration boiled over late in the match when Themba Zwane received a straight red card in the 84th minute after an off-the-ball altercation with Alvarado, reducing South Africa to nine men.
Mexico also finished the game with 10 men after César Montes was shown a red card in stoppage time, adding another dramatic twist to an increasingly heated contest.
Despite the late disciplinary incidents, Mexico were dominant throughout the encounter, combining relentless pressing with clinical finishing to secure a comfortable victory and make a strong statement at the start of their World Cup journey.
