Mexico beats South Africa 2-0 in FIFA World Cup 2026 opening match

Host nation Mexico made a strong start to the FIFA World Cup 2026 by defeating South Africa 2-0 in the tournament’s opening match at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

Mexico looked confident from the opening whistle and controlled much of the game with attacking football and sustained pressure on the opposition. The breakthrough came in the 9th minute when Johan Quinoñes found the back of the net with a well-worked move, giving Mexico an early 1-0 lead.

Mexico created several more chances in the first half but failed to convert them into goals. The team still went into halftime with a deserved 1-0 advantage. The second half also began with Mexico on the attack, putting South Africa’s defence under constant pressure.

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Early in the half, South African defender St Hol committed a dangerous foul on a Mexican player. The referee immediately showed him a red card and sent him off, leaving South Africa with 10 players.

Mexico was awarded a free kick after the incident, but could not convert it into another goal. Despite missing a few opportunities, Mexico remained the stronger side throughout the match and celebrated a successful start to its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in front of its home supporters.