Mexico City. – The Mexican national team wrote a new page in its history by defeating South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, achieving a victory in its World Cup debut for the first time.
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Driven by more than 80 thousand fans at the Estadio Ciudad de México, the team led by Javier Aguirre showed authority from the first minute and ended a long streak of winless debuts, which included five losses and two draws.
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Quiñones paved the way
Mexico quickly took control of the action and found their reward in the 9th minute. After high pressure on the South African exit, Erik Lira recovered the ball and set up Julián Quiñones, who finished with a powerful cross-shot to score the first goal of the 2026 World Cup.
The Aztec team maintained the initiative throughout the first half and came close to extending their lead on several occasions. Raúl Jiménez tested goalkeeper Ronwen Williams with a great save, while Quiñones also hit the post before halftime.
Jiménez seals the match
The situation became complicated for South Africa at the start of the second half when Sphephelo Sithole was sent off, leaving his team with ten players.
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With a numerical advantage, Mexico managed the match and found the second goal in the 67th minute. Raúl Jiménez took advantage of a cross into the box to connect with an accurate header that beat Williams again and secured the victory for the hosts.
The African team suffered another blow with the expulsion of Themba Zwane in the final minutes, while César Montes also saw a red card for Mexico at the end of the match.
Ideal start for Aguirre’s team
The victory places Mexico on firm footing in Group A and reinforces the expectations of a fanbase that dreams of an outstanding performance as host of the tournament.
In addition to the result, the Mexican team left good impressions due to their intensity, tactical discipline, and ability to constantly create danger in front of the rival goal.
Next engagement
Mexico will return to action next Wednesday when they face South Korea in Guadalajara, while South Africa will look to bounce back against the Czech Republic in Atlanta.
With a convincing performance and a historic triumph, Javier Aguirre’s team began their journey in the 2026 World Cup in the best possible way, giving millions of fans hope for the possibility of a standout campaign at home.
