Mexico launched the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a convincing 2-0 victory over South Africa on Thursday at Estadio Azteca, ending a streak of winless World Cup opening matches.
Julián Quiñones opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a clinical finish following a South African turnover, notching the tournament’s first goal. Raúl Jiménez added a second-half header in the 67th minute to seal the result.
The match was marked by disciplinary drama, with three red cards issued — two to South African players — as Bafana Bafana finished with nine men. Mexico dominated possession and chances throughout.
The win gives Mexico three crucial points in Group A and provides an early boost on home soil. South Africa, meanwhile, faces an uphill battle in the group stage.
Man of the Match: Julián Quiñones.
