Mexico began their home 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in impressive fashion, cruising to a 2-0 victory over South Africa in a fiery Group A opener that saw three players sent off in a dramatic second half.
The co-hosts asserted their dominance from the outset and took the lead after just nine minutes. A costly turnover by Erik Lira allowed Julián Quiñones to pounce on the loose ball, race through on goal, and calmly slot his effort through the legs of South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Mexico remained firmly in control before halftime and came close to extending their advantage. Quiñones rattled the post with a low strike, while Bryan Gutiérrez squandered another excellent opportunity after being played in by the former Atlas forward.
South Africa’s hopes of a comeback suffered a major blow shortly after the restart when Sphephelo Sithole was shown a straight red card for hauling down Gutiérrez as he burst clear towards goal.
With the numerical advantage, Mexico continued to dictate proceedings and doubled their lead midway through the second half. Raúl Jiménez marked his first World Cup start in style, rising highest to power home a header from Roberto Alvarado’s inviting cross.
Tempers flared as the match entered its closing stages. Themba Zwane was dismissed after appearing to strike Alvarado in the face, reducing South Africa to nine men, while Mexico captain César Montes also saw red following a late challenge on Khuliso Mudau.
Despite the late disciplinary chaos, Mexico comfortably saw out the result to claim all three points and make the perfect start to their World Cup journey. South Africa, meanwhile, were left to rue a frustrating evening that ended with nine men on the pitch and plenty of lessons to take into their remaining group-stage fixtures.
