Key Moments and Images from Mexico-South Africa's World Cup Kickoff Match

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio handed South Africa’s midfielder Themba Zwane his marching orders with a red card during the 2026 World Cup Group A match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026.

n

Mexico made a resounding statement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating South Africa 2-0 in front of a capacity crowd at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday, with goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez securing a decisive victory.

n

The match saw South Africa finish with nine men, adding to the drama of the encounter, as Mexico claimed all three points in their opening match.

n

One of the key highlights of the match was Julian Quinones scoring the first goal of the 2026 tournament, etching his name in World Cup history with a strike after just nine minutes.

n

Quinones' goal came courtesy of a South African error, which he punished with a low shot that found its way through the legs of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, sending the home crowd into raptures.

n

The Estadio Azteca also made history by becoming the first stadium to host matches at three different World Cups, with its rich football legacy continuing to grow.

n

The iconic venue was packed with 80,824 spectators, providing a vibrant backdrop for the opening match of the expanded 48-team tournament.

n

Raul Jimenez sealed Mexico's comfortable victory in the 67th minute, heading home a cross from Roberto Alvarado to put the result beyond doubt.

n

South Africa's difficult evening took a turn for the worse when Sphephelo Sithole was sent off in the 49th minute for bringing down Brian Gutierrez, and Themba Zwane followed suit in the 84th minute after a VAR review.

n

Themba Zwane's red card was a result of striking Alvarado in the face with his arm, leaving South Africa with nine players on the field.

n

The match saw a third red card, with Mexico defender Cesar Montes dismissed for a clumsy challenge on Khulisa Mudau near the edge of the penalty area.

n

The victory gives Mexico an early advantage in Group A, while South Africa will need to regroup and respond strongly in their remaining matches to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.