FIFA WORLD CUP 2026: Mexico secures 2-0 win over nine-man South Africa

Mexico kicked off their World Cup campaign with a chaotic 2-0 victory over South Africa, who went down to nine men at a packed Azteca Stadium.

Julian Quiñones opened the scoring early in the 9th minute, finding the back of the net after being set up by Érik Lira.

In the second half, South Africa’s discipline crumbled as Yaimil Sithole was sent off with a straight red card in the 49th minute.

Taking advantage of the extra man, Raúl Jiménez doubled Mexico’s lead in the 67th minute via an assist from Roberto Alvarado.

The closing stages turned increasingly frantic as South Africa went down to nine men when Themba Zwane received a straight red card in the 84th minute, before Mexico’s César Montes was also dismissed deep into stoppage time (90’+2).

Despite the late chaos, Mexico comfortably closed out the match to secure three points.

Group A action continues on Thursday evening when South Korea faces the Czech Republic from 22:00h.