Mexico beat S’Africa in chaotic World Cup opener
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially kicked off with a chaotic opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa as three players were shown red card.
Mexico sealed a 2-0 victory over the African side who were returning to the global showpiece for the first time since 2010 when they hosted.
A colourful opening ceremony took place just before the match started, with Shakira, Colombia’s J Balvin, Afrobeats star Burna Boy, Latin music star Danny Ocean and Fher Olvera all performing.
Mexico took a ninth-minute lead with a goal from Julian Quinones.
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Things got tougher for South Africa as Yaya Sithole became the first player to be sent off in the 2026 World Cup after he denied a goalscoring opportunity.
Raul Jimenez then scored his first goal at a World Cup finals, heading Mexico’s second.
Themba Zwane was also sent off for South Africa over a slap, leaving them down to nine, before Mexico’s Cesar Montes was dismissed late on for a foul.
Mexico now top Group A. They have Czech Republic and South Korea to face next as they look to advance from the group stage.
