MEXICO CITY — Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Estadio Azteca on Thursday, with co-hosts Mexico scoring early and adding a second-half goal in a game that saw three red cards issued.
Julián Quiñones gave Mexico the lead in the ninth minute, and Raúl Jiménez added a second goal in the 67th minute before a crowd of more than 80,000 at the historic venue in Mexico City. The result marked the start of the expanded 48-team tournament co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada.
Defender César Montes of Mexico, Sphephelo Sithole of South Africa and Themba Zwane of South Africa were sent off, with the three dismissals representing the most red cards in a World Cup opening match in nearly two decades, according to reports. The match was refereed by Wilton Sampaio of Brazil.
Mexico, appearing in its third World Cup as hosts, controlled much of the play in Group A. South Africa, returning to the tournament after qualifying from Africa, mounted several counterattacks but struggled to create clear scoring chances.
The game followed an opening ceremony at the stadium that featured performances by Mexican and international artists. Mexico City Stadium, formerly known as Estadio Azteca, became the first venue to host opening matches in three FIFA World Cups.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Mexican officials attended the match. Mexican coach Javier Aguirre expressed satisfaction with the result but noted the physical nature of the contest. “We are happy with the three points, but we know there is still a long way to go,” Aguirre said in post-match comments reported by multiple outlets.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos acknowledged the challenge of facing the hosts in their backyard. The match was a rematch of the 2010 World Cup opener in Johannesburg, which Mexico also won 1-1 draw wait, no — actually South Africa drew with Mexico 1-1 in 2010.
Mexico next faces South Korea on June 18, while South Africa plays Czechia. As of June 12, 2026, both teams continue preparations for their remaining group stage matches. Details on disciplinary consequences for the red cards remain subject to FIFA review.
