Mexico kicked off their home campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa on Thursday, in a fiery Group A opener marked by three red cards at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
The hosts took an early lead in the ninth minute when Julián Quiñones capitalized on a costly error from South Africa midfielder Yaya Sithole, who lost possession dangerously close to his own penalty area.
South Africa’s hopes of a comeback faded after the break as Sithole was shown a straight red card for bringing down Brian Gutiérrez. Moments later, Bafana Bafana captain Themba Zwane was also dismissed, reducing the African side to nine men.
Mexico made their numerical advantage count, with veteran striker Raúl Jiménez heading home his first-ever FIFA World Cup goal at the age of 35 to seal the victory and delight the home crowd.
The heated encounter ended with a third dismissal when Mexico defender César Montes received a late red card, capping off a tense and ill-tempered World Cup clash.
The result gives Mexico an early boost in the tournament, while South Africa faces an uphill battle in their remaining group-stage fixtures after a frustrating and disciplinary-heavy opening performance.
