Mexico kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament’s opening match on Wednesday in Mexico City.
The hosts took an early lead through Julián Quiñones before veteran striker Raúl Jiménez doubled the advantage in the second half to secure all three points for El Tri.
South Africa’s hopes of mounting a comeback suffered a major setback after Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane were sent off, reducing Bafana Bafana to nine men. Mexico also finished the match with 10 men after César Montes received a late red card.
The result gives Mexico a strong start in Group A, while South Africa face an uphill task in their bid to reach the knockout stages.
Despite showing moments of promise, the South Africans struggled to cope with the hosts’ intensity and were ultimately undone by defensive lapses and disciplinary issues.
Bafana Bafana will now look to bounce back in their next group match, while Mexico aim to build on their winning start before their home supporters.
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