Mexico Defeat Nine-Man South Africa to Launch Home World Cup Campaign in Style

Mexico opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa in a dramatic and controversial tournament opener at the packed Azteca Stadium on Thursday night.

The hosts made a dream start when Julián Quiñones capitalised on a loose ball inside the penalty area in the ninth minute and fired past South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to send the home crowd into celebration.

Mexico continued to dominate proceedings and nearly doubled their advantage before halftime when Quiñones struck the post with a first-time effort.

The contest swung decisively in Mexico’s favour five minutes after the restart when South Africa midfielder Yaya Sithole received a straight red card for bringing down Brian Gutiérrez as the Mexican forward raced through on goal.

With the numerical advantage, Mexico tightened their grip on the game and eventually doubled their lead through veteran striker Raúl Jiménez.

The 35-year-old powered home a header from Roberto Alvarado’s cross midway through the second half to score his first-ever World Cup goal, marking another milestone in his remarkable return from a career-threatening head injury suffered in 2020.

South Africa’s frustrations boiled over later in the match when substitute Themba Zwane was shown a red card for striking Alvarado, reducing Bafana Bafana to nine men.

Mexico also finished the match with ten players after defender César Montes was sent off late in the contest for a challenge on Khuliso Mudau.

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio became a central figure in the encounter, issuing three red cards, a remarkable statistic for an opening World Cup fixture.

The victory gives Mexico an early boost in front of their home supporters as they begin their quest for a deep run in football’s biggest tournament, while South Africa face an uphill task after a disappointing and ill-disciplined start to their campaign.