Photo caption: South Africa’s defender #20 Khuliso Mudau is fouled by Mexico’s defender #03 Cesar Montes during the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. (Photo by Yuri CORTEZ / AFP)
Mexico began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 2–0 win over South Africa in a dramatic and ill-tempered opening match that saw three red cards and the African side finish with nine men.
Julian Quiñones gave the hosts the lead after a strong start in which Mexico dominated possession and also hit the post through the same player before half-time.
South Africa’s task became harder shortly after the break when Yaya Sithole was sent off for bringing down Brian Gutierrez just outside the penalty area, denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Mexico capitalised on their numerical advantage, with Raul Jimenez doubling the lead with a close-range header before South Africa’s disciplinary issues worsened when Themba Zwane was also shown a red card for violent conduct.
