Mexico launched the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa in the Group A opener at Estadio Azteca on Thursday, delivering a high-octane performance laced with early promise, clinical finishing, and late chaos.
Julián Quiñones struck first in the 9th minute, latching onto an Erik Lira pass to notch the tournament’s opening goal and set a vibrant tone for the co-hosts in front of a raucous home crowd. Raúl Jiménez, the veteran striker returning from a severe 2020 skull fracture that required surgery, added a second goal in the 67th minute with a superb header — his first-ever World Cup strike — effectively sealing the result.
The match turned increasingly fractious as South Africa, already trailing, saw two players sent off. Sphephelo Sithole received a red card in the 49th minute for a reckless challenge, reducing Bafana Bafana to 10 men. Themba Zwane followed with another dismissal later for slapping Mexico’s Roberto Alvarado, leaving the visitors with just nine players on the pitch. Mexico’s César Montes was shown a late red card in stoppage time for a professional foul, but it had little impact on the outcome.
The high-altitude conditions at Azteca, sitting more than a mile above sea level, appeared to favor the Mexicans, who controlled large stretches of play. South Africa showed flashes of counterattacking intent early but struggled to cope once reduced in numbers, with coach Hugo Broos shifting to a more defensive posture.
Off the pitch, the day featured a glittering opening ceremony with performances by Andrea Bocelli, J Balvin, and Shakira, though protests near the stadium led to minor vandalism and clashes with police. Fans across Mexico City celebrated wildly, with watch parties and street festivities underscoring the national excitement for El Tri’s campaign.
Mexico’s young talents also shone. Seventeen-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora made his senior World Cup debut to loud cheers just before Jiménez’s goal, injecting fresh energy into the side. Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, appearing in a record sixth World Cup, anchored the defense as Mexico kept a clean sheet.
The win gives Mexico an ideal start in Group A, which also includes South Korea and Czechia. South Africa, appearing in their fourth World Cup, faces an uphill battle to advance after this deflating result.
AP
