Mexico started off the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a thrilling victory over South Africa 2-0 at Mexico City's historic Estadio Azteca.
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Match Results & Key Facts
The final score was Mexico 2-0 South Africa. On June 11, 2026, the match was played at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City as part of Group A of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The encounter had three red cards, two for South Africa and one for Mexico.
Goal Scorers
Mexico scored goals from two players:
In the 9th minute, Julián Quiñones scored the tournament's opening goal.
capitalized on a defensive error by Sphephelo Sithole, who lost possession on the edge of his box.
Raúl Jiménez (Fulham) - 67th minute.
Headed in from close range following Roberto Alvarado's cross from the right.
His first-ever World Cup finals goal and his first start in a World Cup.
**Man of the Match 🏆. **
Julián Quiñones (Mexico) was recognized as the Man of the Match.
scored the tournament's opening goal in a clinical fashion.
Nearly added his second, hitting the base of the post after Brian Gutiérrez's lay-off.
Delivered the moment that launched the 2026 World Cup with a right footed finish.
Dramatic Red Card Incident.
The match included three red cards that overshadowed aspects of Mexico's triumph.
Sphephelo Sithole (South Africa) - 49' minute: fouled Brian Gutiérrez as the last player.
Themba Zwane (South Africa) - Late in the match: VAR review for allegedly striking Roberto Alvarado
Cesar Montes (Mexico) - Stoppage time: Cynical foul on Khuliso Mudau.
South Africa finished the match with only nine men after receiving both red cards.
What This Means
Mexico established an early lead in Group A with a crucial three-point victory. Mexico's agony in World Cup opening games came to an end with a triumph over a South African side that finished with nine men.
South Africa, meanwhile, had a horrible start to the 2026 World Cup, exacerbated by red cards and a 2-0 disadvantage.