Mexico breaks opener curse with 2-0 win over South Africa in World Cup debut

Co-hosts Mexico have ended their winless run in World Cup opening matches with a 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on 16 June 2026. The result marks the first time Mexico has won a World Cup opener, concluding a previous record of five losses and two draws in such fixtures, including a 2010 encounter against then-host South Africa.

Julian Quiñones scored the tournament’s first goal in the ninth minute, providing an early lead for the home side. Raul Jimenez doubled the advantage in the 67th minute, securing the points for Mexico. The match, however, was defined by unprecedented disciplinary issues, with three players sent off during the contest.

South Africa were reduced to ten men in the 49th minute after Sphephelo Sithole received a red card. The situation deteriorated further in the 84th minute when Themba Zwane was also dismissed, leaving the visitors with nine players for the final stages of the match. Mexico’s Cesar Montes was also sent off in the final stages of the game.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which officially commenced on 11 June 2026, is the largest tournament in history. It is co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The tournament is scheduled to conclude on 19 July 2026, with the final to be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino previously announced that the final will feature the first half-time show in FIFA World Cup history. The opening match at the Azteca Stadium, attended by a packed crowd, set a contentious yet historic tone for the expanded global event.