2026 FIFA World Cup | Group A | Thursday, June 11, 2026
- Mexico 2-0 South Africa
Co-hosts Mexico got the 2026 FIFA World Cup off to a winning start with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in a dramatic opening match at the iconic Azteca Stadium on Thursday night.
With a colourful crowd creating a carnival atmosphere, Mexico took control early and never looked back as Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez found the net in a match that produced three red cards.
The breakthrough came in the ninth minute after South Africa lost possession in their own half. Sphephelo Sithole was caught on the ball, allowing Quiñones to pounce before firing a low shot through the legs of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to score the tournament’s first goal.
Mexico continued to press and nearly doubled their lead before halftime, with Quiñones striking the post as South Africa struggled to settle.
Bafana Bafana’s task became even harder shortly after the break when Sithole was sent off for bringing down Brian Gutiérrez as the Mexican attacker raced through on goal.
The hosts eventually made their numerical advantage count in the 67th minute. Roberto Alvarado delivered a teasing cross into the box and Jiménez arrived unmarked at the back post to head home Mexico’s second goal.
South Africa’s frustrations boiled over late in the game when substitute Themba Zwane was shown a red card following a VAR review for striking Alvarado in the face.
Mexico also finished with ten men after defender César Montes was dismissed for denying Khuliso Mudau a clear goalscoring opportunity, but by then the result was beyond doubt.
The victory gives Mexico an early advantage in Group A and lifts hopes of a deep run on home soil. South Africa on the otherside, had their first World Cup match in 16 years ended in disappointment, with costly mistakes and indiscipline proving expensive.
Next, South Africa will face Czech Republic on June 18 at 7pm (EAT), while co-hosts Mexico welcome South Korea on Friday June 19 at 4am (EAT)
Group A action will continue on Friday morning as South Korea take on Czech Republic in Guadalajara, Mexico at 5am (EAT).
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup roars into life, football fans across Africa can catch every moment of the action live on SuperSport through DStv and GOtv, with 104 games on the card “Everything Can Wait.”
