Mexico launched their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a composed 2-0 victory over South Africa at Estadio Azteca on June 11, 2026. Julian Quinones struck early and Raul Jimenez added a second-half goal, while a remarkable three red cards, two for South Africa, one for Mexico, turned the closing stages into a chaotic spectacle.
🔥 Quick Read
- Mexico beat South Africa 2-0 in Group A opener
- Quinones struck early in the ninth minute
- Jimenez sealed the win with a 67th-minute goal
- South Africa finished with nine men after two red cards
- Mexico also ended the match with ten men
Hosts Start Strong as South Africa Lose Discipline
The 2026 World Cup opened in front of a roaring crowd at the Estadio Azteca, where hosts Mexico delivered a confident start to their campaign. Javier Aguirre’s side controlled the match with greater composure and attacking intent, securing a 2-0 win over South Africa thanks to goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez.
Mexico needed only nine minutes to take the lead. Quiñones capitalised on a defensive mistake from South Africa and finished calmly to ignite the home crowd. With an early advantage, Mexico settled into the game and continued to limit South Africa’s attacking opportunities.
Red Card Changes the Match as Jiménez Seals the Win
The turning point arrived early in the second half when South Africa midfielder Sphephelo Sithole was sent off around the 50th minute, forcing Hugo Broos’ side to continue with 10 men. Mexico quickly made the numerical advantage count, and in the 67th minute, Jiménez found the net inside the box to double the lead and effectively seal the result.
The closing stages became increasingly chaotic. In the 84th minute, South Africa were reduced to nine men after Themba Zwane was also shown a red card. Mexico were not able to finish the game with a full team either, as defender César Montes was sent off in stoppage time, bringing a fiery World Cup opener to a dramatic end.
Winning Start for Mexico, but Discipline Remains a Concern
The victory helped Mexico rewrite the memory of their 1-1 draw with South Africa in the opening match of the 2010 World Cup. Sixteen years later, the hosts finally had the last word in this fixture.
However, Montes’ late red card serves as a warning for Mexico. If they want to build momentum in the group stage, discipline and emotional control must improve in the matches ahead.
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