7M - Mexico 2-0 South Africa: Javier Aguirre's side kick off World Cup with comfortable win at Azteca Stadium

MEXICO CITY -- Co-hosts Mexico commenced their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a lively 2-0 victory over South Africa on Thursday in the tournament's opening match.

In front of a capacity crowd of 80,824 spectators at the iconic Azteca Stadium, El Tri found the net in each half during a fiery encounter that featured three red cards.

Forward Julian Quinones, making his World Cup debut, gave the home side an early lead in the 9th minute. Veteran forward Raul Jimenez sealed the victory with a 67th-minute header. The goal was Jimenez's 46th international strike, tying him with Jared Borgetti for second place on Mexico's all-time scoring leaderboard.

The second half turned chaotic as South Africa saw both Yaya Sithole in the 49th minute and Themba Zwane in the 84th minute sent off. Mexico was also reduced to ten men when defender Cesar Montes received a red card in stoppage time.

With this opening win, Mexico claims three points in Group A before heading to Guadalajara to face South Korea next week.