Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 on Thursday in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Estadio Azteca.
Julian Quinones scored in the ninth minute to give the hosts the early lead. Raul Jimenez added a second goal in the 67th minute.
The game featured three red cards. South Africa’s Sphephelo Sithole was sent off in the 49th minute, and teammate Themba Zwane received a red card in the 84th minute. Mexico’s César Montes was also dismissed in stoppage time.
Mexico played with a man advantage for much of the second half after the first South African sending off. The team controlled possession and created more chances against a South Africa side that finished the match with nine players.
The result gives Mexico three points in Group A. South Africa has zero points from its first game of the tournament.