Hosts Mexico made a winning start to the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating South Africa 2-0 in the tournament’s opening match at the Mexico City Stadium on Thursday night.
Julian Quinones starred for El Tri, scoring the opening goal and helping to create the second as Javier Aguirre’s side secured the first victory of the expanded 48-team tournament.
Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, Mexico wasted little time asserting themselves and nearly took the lead inside five minutes. Raul Jimenez rose to meet a cross from Israel Reyes, but South Africa captain Ronwen Williams produced an excellent save to push the effort around the post.
The breakthrough eventually came in the ninth minute. Midfielder Erik Lira won possession from Sphephelo Sithole deep inside the South African half before Quinones calmly fired through the legs of Williams from just outside the penalty area. The goal settled Mexico, who continued to dominate possession and create chances.
South Africa struggled to gain a foothold in the contest and were fortunate not to concede again before half-time. Williams made another important stop to deny Jimenez, while Quinones also struck the post as the hosts piled on the pressure.
Despite trailing by only one goal at the break, Bafana Bafana faced an increasingly difficult task against a confident Mexican side backed by a capacity crowd. South Africa’s hopes suffered a major setback shortly after the restart when Sithole was shown a red card for bringing down Jimenez as the striker raced through on goal.
The numerical advantage quickly paid off for the hosts. Within moments of teenage sensation Gilberto Mora being introduced, Mexico doubled their lead through Jimenez. Quinones combined neatly with the veteran striker before releasing Roberto Alvarado down the flank. Alvarado’s cross found Jimenez at the far post, and the Mexico forward made no mistake with his header to put the match beyond South Africa.
The goal capped an impressive individual display from Quinones, who was at the heart of Mexico’s best attacking moves throughout the evening.
The closing stages produced further drama as both teams finished with 10 men. South Africa substitute Themba Zwane was sent off, while Mexico defender Cesar Montes also received a red card before the final whistle. However, neither dismissal dampened the mood inside the stadium as Mexican supporters celebrated a successful start to the World Cup on home soil.
