MEXICO CITY, June 12, 2026 — Co-host Mexico launched its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in style, defeating South Africa 2-0 in the tournament's opening match at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Thursday night. Goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez helped El Tri secure three crucial points in front of a passionate home crowd as the expanded 48-team World Cup got underway.
The victory marked an ideal start for Mexico in Group A and ended the country's long wait for a winning result in a World Cup opening match. The hosts took control early, capitalizing on a defensive mistake to break the deadlock before adding a second goal after the interval.
Mexico struck first when Julián Quiñones punished a South African error, giving the home side an early advantage and igniting celebrations among the packed crowd at the historic venue. The hosts continued to press throughout the first half, creating several chances while limiting South Africa's attacking opportunities.
South Africa's task became significantly more difficult shortly after halftime when midfielder Sphephelo Sithole received a red card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. Reduced to 10 men, Bafana Bafana struggled to contain Mexico's growing momentum.
Veteran striker Raúl Jiménez sealed the win in the 67th minute, heading home from close range to score his first-ever World Cup goal. The emotional strike came in his fourth World Cup appearance and capped a memorable night for the experienced forward, who has battled back from serious injury during his career.
The match grew increasingly physical as frustrations mounted. South Africa finished with nine players after Themba Zwane was sent off late in the game for violent conduct. Mexico also ended the contest with 10 men after César Montes received a red card in stoppage time.
Despite the disciplinary drama, Mexico's midfield controlled much of the encounter, with the hosts dictating possession and creating the better chances. South Africa found it difficult to establish rhythm and rarely threatened the Mexican goal.
The result places Mexico at the top of Group A after the opening round of matches. El Tri will next face South Korea in Guadalajara, while South Africa will look to recover when it takes on Czechia in its second group-stage fixture.
As fireworks lit up the Mexico City sky and fans celebrated inside the Azteca, the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially began with a statement performance from one of its hosts. Mexico's convincing victory has provided an early boost to hopes of a deep tournament run on home soil.