Co-hosts Mexico kicked off the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa in a dramatic Group A opener that descended into chaos, producing three red cards and a tense finish at a packed Estadio Azteca.
In front of 80,824 passionate supporters in Mexico City, El Tri delivered the perfect start to their home campaign, but the contest will be remembered as much for its disciplinary drama as the football itself.
Mexico controlled large periods of the match and took advantage of a South African side that finished the game with just nine men. The visitors’ hopes of mounting a comeback evaporated when veteran midfielder Themba Zwane was sent off for violent conduct before Mexico captain César Montes also received his marching orders deep into stoppage time.
The result puts Mexico at the top of Group A and gives Javier Aguirre’s men valuable early momentum in their quest to progress from the tournament’s opening phase.
South Africa’s challenge unravels
South Africa battled hard for much of the contest but saw their resistance crumble in the closing stages.
The turning point came in the 84th minute when Zwane was initially shown a yellow card following an off-the-ball altercation with Roberto Alvarado. However, after a VAR review, the referee upgraded the punishment to a straight red card after determining that the South African had struck his opponent in the face.
The dismissal left Bafana Bafana down to nine men and facing an impossible task against a Mexican side already in control of proceedings.
Just moments earlier, Mexico had continued to press forward, forcing South Africa deeper into their own half as frustrations began to show among the African side.
Montes sees red after needless challenge
The drama was not over.
With seven minutes of added time announced, Mexico appeared set to comfortably see out the victory before captain César Montes was dismissed in stoppage time.
The defender was shown a straight red card after bringing down a South African attacker and denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
It was a rash challenge from the Mexican skipper and one that could prove costly heading into the team’s next group fixture.
Despite the late setback, Mexico never looked in danger of surrendering their lead as the final whistle sparked celebrations around the stadium.
Home fans celebrate dream start
The atmosphere throughout the afternoon was electric as Mexico’s supporters turned the iconic venue into a sea of green.
Every Mexican attack was roared forward, with the loudest cheers reserved for veteran striker Raúl Jiménez, who received a standing ovation when substituted in the second half.
The hosts looked organised, aggressive and determined to make a statement on opening day, while South Africa struggled to cope with the intensity generated by both the crowd and Mexico’s pressing game.
As the final whistle sounded, thousands of fans celebrated a victory that not only delivered three points but also sent a warning to the rest of Group A.
Perfect beginning for El Tri
Mexico’s World Cup campaign could hardly have started better.
Three points, a clean sheet and a convincing victory ensure the co-hosts begin their tournament on the front foot. The only blemish was the late dismissal of Montes, which may force a defensive reshuffle for their next outing.
For South Africa, meanwhile, there is plenty to reflect on after a frustrating afternoon marked by disciplinary issues and missed opportunities.
The World Cup is only just beginning, but Mexico have already shown they intend to make their home advantage count.
