Mexico began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in style, as El Tri secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament opener at the iconic Azteca Stadium on Friday.
Goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez sent shockwaves through Mexico City, with the home fans celebrating a memorable opening-day win over Bafana Bafana.
The 35-year-old Jimenez, who ended his wait for a World Cup strike after six goalless appearances across the past three tournaments, was visibly moved and paid an emotional tribute.
Jimenez saw an early attempt denied before Quinones ignited the Azteca, staging its historic third World Cup curtain-raiser, by pouncing on a loose ball. He set himself up inside the area and slotted his shot through the legs of South African
goalkeeper Williams to open the scoring.
South Africa tried to claw their way back into the contest but could not find a breakthrough, as Mexico took a deserved 1-0 lead into half-time and looked firmly in control.
After the interval, South Africa were reduced to ten men when Sithole was sent off for a challenge from behind that halted a clear goal-scoring chance. Jimenez’s ensuing free kick was blocked by the wall.
Jimenez later doubled Mexico’s advantage, peeling away from his marker in trademark fashion to meet a superb cross from the right following a swift counter in the hosts’ favour. The Fulham forward powered his header past the helpless Williams, who could do little as the poacher struck again and the Mariachis’ songs grew louder.
Bafana Bafana’s evening worsened when Themba Zwane was also dismissed, joining Sithole in the dressing room as Mexico coasted towards victory.
The match concluded with ten Mexicans against nine South Africans after Montes was sent off in the second minute of stoppage time, but the damage had long been done, and Mexico launched their World Cup campaign with a satisfying win.
