World Cup 2026 | Mexico 2 - 0 South Africa

And we're off...

Mexico overcome South Africa in fiery World Cup opener as three players see red

Author | Jack L

Stadium | Azteca Stadium

Three players were sent off as World Cup co-hosts Mexico beat South Africa in a dramatic opening match in front of a packed crowd. 

South Africa ended the contest with nine men, while Mexico were reduced to 10 players in the closing stages.

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio produced a flurry of red cards, dismissing South Africa's Yaya Sithole for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity and Themba Zwane for striking an opponent, before showing Mexico defender Cesar Montes a red card for a late challenge.

Before the match started, there was the bright and vibrant opening ceremony. For everything wrong with this tournament, it was nice to see people come together.

Watch | Opening Ceremony | Posted by Media Focus 

Record breaking for the wrong reasons...

Only four red cards were shown across the entire Qatar 2022 World Cup, while a tournament opener had never previously produced three dismissals.

Long before the game boiled over, Mexico had given their supporters reason to celebrate with the first goal of the finals after just nine minutes.

How the game was won

South Africa midfielder Sithole was dispossessed by Erik Lira and the ball broke kindly for Julian Quinones, whose powerful effort squirmed through the legs of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

The first goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. youtu.be/Qysaf0gKv2U?...

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Quinones came close to doubling the lead shortly before half-time, but his first-time strike from 12 yards rebounded off the inside of the right post.

The hosts were handed a significant advantage five minutes after the restart when Sithole was sent off for bringing down Brian Gutierrez as he raced through on goal.

Veteran striker Raul Jimenez, 35, wrapped up the victory with his first World Cup goal, powering a header beyond Williams from Roberto Alvarado's cross. The moment appeared to leave the experienced forward overcome with emotion as Mexico celebrated a winning start to the tournament.