Mexico defeat South Africa 2-0 in FIFA World Cup 2026 opener
Julian Quiñones gave Mexico an early lead in the ninth minute, capitalizing on a precise pass from Erik Lira to put the home side ahead.
KATHMANDU: Hosts Mexico kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in style with a comfortable 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament’s opening match at Mexico City Stadium on Thursday.
Julian Quiñones gave Mexico an early lead in the ninth minute, capitalizing on a precise pass from Erik Lira to put the home side ahead.
South Africa’s hopes of mounting a comeback suffered a major blow in the 49th minute when defender Sephelo Sithole was shown a red card, reducing his team to 10 men.
Mexico took full advantage of their numerical superiority, with Raul Jimenez doubling the lead in the 67th minute to put the result beyond doubt.
The match became increasingly heated as South Africa were reduced to nine players in the 84th minute when Themba Zwane received a second red card.
Mexico’s Cesar Montes was also sent off during stoppage time in the second half, bringing the total number of red cards in the World Cup opener to three.
The victory earned Mexico three points and the top spot in Group A. Later in the day, the group’s other fixture will see the Czech Republic face South Korea.
