Mexico Opens World Cup 2026 With 2-0 Win Over South Africa
Mexico, the tournament host, beat South Africa 2-0 on Thursday night at a packed Estadio Azteca in the opening match of World Cup 2026. Julián Quiñones scored in the 9th minute after a defensive error, and Raúl Jiménez made it 2-0 in the 67th minute after a fine assist from Roberto Alvarado. The game featured three straight red cards, two for South Africa, Siphelo Sithole and Themba Zwane, and one for Mexico, César Montes, late in the match.
Mexico dominated throughout and finished with 16 shots, while South Africa managed only three, two on target. South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams produced two big saves to deny Jiménez. The hosts could have won by more, but were wasteful after taking control, including periods when they had the numerical advantage.
The result gave Mexico a winning start to the group stage, while South Africa will need to recover quickly after the disciplinary setbacks.
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