2026 World Cup: Mexico beat 9-man South Africa in opening game

Mexico, one of the 2026 World Cup co‑hosts, began the tournament with a 2‑0 victory over South Africa on Wednesday night.

The encounter echoed the opening match of the 2010 edition, which ended in a 1‑1 draw.

From the first whistle, the Mexicans dominated the game and earned the opening goal within the first ten minutes.

Julián Quiñones scored in the 9th minute, and Raúl Jiménez added a second in the 67th minute.

Both goals secured the win for the co‑hosts against a South African side that finished the match with nine players after two red cards.

César Montes was also sent off in stoppage time, but Mexico collected all three points.