Mexico kicked off the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa in front of 80,824 supporters at the iconic Azteca on Thursday.
Julian Quinones scored the first goal of the tournament in the ninth minute. Erik Lira preyed on Bafana Bafana’s unsightly attempt to play out of the back and forced the ball to spill to Quinones, who took two touches before firing it through the goalkeeper from the edge of the area.
Sphephelo Sithole, who surrendered possession for Mexico’s opener, was sent off in the 49th minute when he denied a clear goal-scoring opportunity.