MEXICO CITY, Mexico — Hosts Mexico opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday, becoming the first team to claim three points at the tournament.
Okay News reports that forward Julian Quiñones scored the first goal of the tournament in the eighth minute after Mexico capitalised on a defensive error by South Africa. The hosts dominated much of the opening half and came close to extending their lead on several occasions, including a strike that hit the post before the break.
South Africa’s hopes of mounting a comeback suffered a major setback shortly after halftime when Sphephelo Sithole was sent off for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. Mexico eventually doubled their advantage in the 66th minute through veteran striker Raúl Jiménez, who finished off a well-worked attacking move to put the result beyond doubt.
The match became increasingly heated in the closing stages. South Africa were reduced to nine men after substitute Themba Zwane received a red card following a VAR review for an elbow on Roberto Alvarado. Mexico also finished with 10 players after César Montes was dismissed deep into stoppage time for denying a goalscoring opportunity.
More than 80,000 spectators attended the opening match, which followed a colourful tournament launch ceremony featuring performances from international music stars. The result gives Mexico an early advantage in their group as the expanded 2026 World Cup gets underway across Mexico, the United States and Canada.
