The 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament kicked off as 10-man Mexico defeated nine-man South Africa 2-0 in a chaotic opening match at the Estadio Azteca.
The 23rd edition of the mundial, set to be hosted in the United States, Mexico and Canada, kicked off on Thursday as Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez scored both goals to guide the co-hosts to victory.
It marked the seventh game in World Cup history to have three or more red cards brandished in a game and the first time ever in an opening game at the tournament.
Mexico got off to the perfect start after they took the lead inside nine minutes through Quinones, marking the fastest goal in an opening game at the World Cup since Philip Lahm’s goal after six minutes at the 2006 edition for Germany against Costa Rica.
The play had originated from an error at the back from South Africa after Yaya Sithole was caught in possession on the edge of his area, allowing the North Americans to score.
Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams had to be alert to keep his side in the game with a series of save, before goalscorer Quinones struck the frame of the goal.
A few minutes into the second half, South Africa were handed their first red card as Sithole, who was at fault for the opener, fouled Bryan Gutierrez who was through on goal and received his marching orders.
Then, Jimenez doubled Mexico’s lead in the 67th minute to mark his first-ever World Cup goal, six years after suffering a serious head injury that threatened to derail his career.
Bafana Bafana were reduced to nine afterwards as Thembo Zwane was handed his marching orders after a VAR review found him guilty of violent conduct. The South African midfielder had hit Alvarado on the face and was controversially dismissed.
Mexico then received their own red card after Cesar Montes was sent off for bringing down Khalisu Mudau with just a few minutes to play.
The scoreline remained the same way, as Mexico extended their unbeaten run in World Cup opening games to eight matches.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
