A heated match with three red cards! The Mexico national team, co-hosts of the tournament, defeated South Africa in the opening game of the 2026 World Cup.
The first Group A match of the 2026 World Cup took place on Thursday night, 11 Jun 2026 GMT+7, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico. It featured a fierce contest between Mexico, one of the co-hosts, and South Africa.
In the opening half, at the 9th minute, Mexico took a 1-0 lead. Julián Quiñones scored with a right-footed shot that found the net, marking the first goal of the 2026 World Cup. The first half ended with this score.
In the second half, at the 49th minute, South Africa was reduced to 10 men when Gutierrez broke away but was fouled by Yaya Sitole. The referee showed a red card to Sitole, sending him off immediately.
Then, at the 67th minute, Mexico extended their lead to 2-0. Alvarado crossed from the right flank; the ball reached the far post where Raúl Jiménez made a diving header.
The ball went in.
By the 84th minute, South Africa was down to 9 men after Temba Zwane elbowed Alvarado. Zwane received a red card following a VAR review.
In stoppage time, at 90+2 minutes, Mexico was down to 10 men when César Montes fouled Kuliso Mudeo. The referee immediately showed a red card to Montes.
The match ended with Mexico winning 2-0 over South Africa, temporarily topping Group A.
In the next fixtures on Thursday, 18 June, Mexico will face South Korea, while South Africa will play against the Czech Republic.