Kathmandu, June 12: Mexico made a winning start to the FIFA World Cup 2026, defeating South Africa 2-0 in the tournament’s opening match at Mexico City Stadium on Thursday.
Goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez secured victory for the hosts in a match marked by three red cards.
Quiñones opened the scoring in the ninth minute, finishing off a pass from Érik Lira to give Mexico an early lead.
South Africa were reduced to 10 men in the 49th minute when Sfhelo Sithole was shown a red card. Mexico capitalized on the numerical advantage, with Jiménez doubling the lead in the 67th minute.
South Africa’s troubles deepened in the 84th minute when Themba Zwane received a red card, leaving his side with just nine players. Mexico also finished the match with 10 men after César Montes was sent off during stoppage time in the second half.
The World Cup opener saw a total of three players dismissed. The victory gives Mexico three points and the early lead in Group A.
The other Group A fixture between the Czech Republic and South Korea is scheduled to take place today morning at 7:45. #fifa
