Co-hosts Mexico opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in a fiery Group A encounter.
The hosts made a fast start, taking the lead in the ninth minute through Julian Quinones, who finished calmly to register one of the opening goals of the tournament.
Mexico controlled large phases of the game but were made to work hard by a physical South African side that struggled to contain the early pressure.
The breakthrough moment set the tone for a tense contest, with both sides picking up multiple disciplinary sanctions as tempers flared.
Raúl Jiménez doubled Mexico’s advantage in the second half, finishing off a well-worked move to put the game beyond South Africa’s reach.
The match ended in controversy, with South Africa reduced to nine men after two red cards, while Mexico also had a player sent off in stoppage time.
Despite the chaotic ending, Mexico held firm to secure all three points and begin their World Cup campaign on a strong note.
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