The 2026 FIFA World Cup got underway in dramatic fashion at the iconic Estadio Azteca as co-hosts Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in a match filled with goals, controversy, and a record number of red cards for an opening fixture.
The atmosphere was electric even before kickoff. Global music stars Shakira and Burna Boy entertained a packed stadium with a performance of the tournament’s official song, while thousands of Mexican supporters transformed the venue into a sea of green, white, and red.
Mexico made a bright start and found the breakthrough just nine minutes into the contest. A costly turnover by South Africa in their own half allowed Julian Quiñones to pounce on the loose ball before calmly finishing past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to hand El Tri an early lead.
South Africa attempted to settle into the game but suffered a major setback shortly after the break. Midfielder Sphephelo Sithole was shown a straight red card for bringing down Raúl Jiménez and denying a clear goalscoring opportunity, reducing Bafana Bafana to ten men.
With the numerical advantage, Mexico continued to dominate possession and eventually doubled their lead in the 68th minute. Roberto Alvarado delivered a dangerous cross into the box and Jiménez rose highest to power home a header. The veteran striker was visibly emotional as he celebrated his first World Cup goal.
The drama was far from over. South Africa’s frustrations boiled over in the closing stages when substitute Themba Zwane was sent off following a VAR review for striking Alvarado during an off-the-ball altercation. Down to nine men, South Africa’s hopes of a comeback disappeared completely.
Mexico were also reduced to ten players deep into stoppage time when defender César Montes received a straight red card for halting a promising South African counterattack. However, the dismissal had little impact on the outcome as the hosts comfortably saw out the remaining minutes.
The victory gives Mexico the perfect start to their World Cup campaign and sends them to the top of Group A. For South Africa, the defeat is compounded by disciplinary concerns, with two key midfielders now set to miss the team’s next crucial group-stage encounter.
