Mexico made a winning start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament’s opening match at the iconic Azteca Stadium on Thursday, June 11, 2026.
The co-hosts were backed by a vibrant home crowd and wasted no time in taking control of the game. Just nine minutes into the competition, Julian Quiñones wrote his name into World Cup history by scoring the first goal of the tournament. The forward capitalised on a costly mistake from South African midfielder Yaya Sithole, who lost possession in a dangerous area, allowing Mexico to strike early.
Mexico dominated large spells of the first half, controlling possession and creating several promising chances. However, they were unable to extend their lead before the break despite their pressure.
The second half saw the game take a more chaotic turn, with disciplinary incidents shaping much of the closing stages. South Africa was reduced to ten men after a sending-off following a VAR review of an off-the-ball incident involving substitute Themba Zwane and Roberto Alvarado.
Mexico also finished the match with ten men after defender Cesar Montes received a red card for stopping a South African counterattack late in the game.
Despite the controversies and three red cards in total, Mexico remained composed and saw out the match comfortably to secure all three points.
The result puts Javier Aguirre’s side at the top of Group A and gives them early momentum as they aim to progress through the opening phase of the tournament.
