Mexico Opens World Cup 2026 With 2-0 Win Over South Africa
Mexico began World Cup 2026 on Thursday night with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament’s opening match at a packed Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The hosts controlled most of the game and sent a strong message in front of tens of thousands of supporters.
Julian Quiñones put Mexico ahead in the ninth minute after a defensive mistake by South Africa, and Raul Jimenez doubled the lead later with a well-worked team move finished after a fine assist from Roberto Alvarado. South Africa finished with nine men after straight red cards for Sphesihle Sithole and Themba Zwane, while Mexico also ended with 10 players after Cesar Montes was sent off late for a reckless foul.
Mexico outshot South Africa 16-3 and could have won by more. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams kept South Africa in the match with two strong saves, but the visitors created little and never seriously threatened the result.
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