Mexico ease past nine-man South Africa in chaotic World Cup opener
Host nation Mexico delighted a packed Azteca Stadium as they defeated nine-man South Africa in the 2026 World Cup opener.
Three players were sent off in the second half, after central defender Cesar Montes received his marching orders in stoppage time.
It took just nine minutes for Mexico to score the first goal of the tournament. They made the most of a defensive mix-up when Erik Lira tackled South Africa midfielder Yaya Sithole before laying the ball off to Julian Quinones who finished past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Things went from bad to worse for Sithole five minutes after the second half when he was sent off after bringing down Brian Gutierrez who was through on goal.
Raul Jimenez then scored his first World Cup goal at the age of 35 when he met to Roberto Alvarado’s cross to head in Mexico’s second.
South Africa were reduced to nine with six minutes remaining, when Themba Zwane hand collided with the face of Alvarado, and Mexico received a red card of their own in the 92nd minute after Cesar Montes’ cynical foul on Khuliso Mudau.
Cover Photo: “Mexico Flag” by World’s Direction, Public Domain Dedication (CC0)
