World Cup Desk – Co-hosts Mexico kicked off their World Cup campaign with a thrilling victory, bringing the famous “Mexican Wave” from the stands straight onto the pitch.
Displaying high intensity and blistering attacks, El Tri dominated South Africa with a 2-0 victory at the historic Azteca Stadium on Thursday night.
Forwards Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez found the back of the net in either half to secure a perfect start for the hosts.
However, the footballing display was nearly overshadowed by heavy disciplinary action. The referee brandished three red cards during the match, setting a record for the most red cards in an opening match in the 96-year history of the World Cup. South Africa received two of the ejections, while Mexico picked up one.
Mexico took control from the very first whistle. Javier Aguirre’s men dominated possession and completely outclassed South Africa in attack, registering 16 shots (4 on target) compared to South Africa’s mere 3 attempts.
Mexico’s first real chance arrived in the 5th minute when Raúl Jiménez met Israel Reyes’ cross from the right flank, but South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made a brilliant save.
The home crowd didn’t have to wait long for a celebration, as Mexico took the lead just four minutes later. Following a major blunder by the South African defense, midfielder Sithole lost possession under intense pressure from Mexico’s defensive midfielder Érick Lira.
Julián Quiñones pounced on the loose ball and fired a brilliant strike to score the first goal of the 2026 World Cup.
Energized by the lead, Mexico kept pressing. In the 19th minute, Quiñones missed the target from outside the box, and later saw another effort rattle the woodwork.
Javier Aguirre’s side created three more clear opportunities in the final five minutes of the first half but went into the break with a 1-0 cushion.
The second half began in disastrous fashion for South Africa. In the 49th minute, Sithole was shown a straight red card for a desperate challenge on Érick Gutiérrez, reducing the visitors to 10 men.
Capitalizing on the numerical advantage, Mexico doubled their lead in the 67th minute. Roberto Alvarado delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, and veteran striker Raúl Jiménez guided a superb header into the back of the net.
The drama escalated late in the game. South Africa received their second red card after a VAR review when Themba Zwane was sent off for a challenge on Alvarado.
Mexico also finished the match with 10 men after defender César Montes received a red card deep into stoppage time for a foul on Khuliso Mudau.