Mexico kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over South Africa on Thursday in a tournament-opening match marked by three red cards and a series of disciplinary incidents.

Roared on by 80,824 fans at the Estadio Azteca, the co-hosts dominated much of the contest and capitalised on South Africa’s indiscipline to secure all three points and make an ideal start to the tournament.

The hosts took the lead in the ninth minute when Julián Quiñones punished a defensive error and fired past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, giving Mexico an early advantage and igniting celebrations among the home crowd.

Mexico continued to create the better chances throughout the first half, with Raúl Jiménez threatening on several occasions. Williams, however, produced a number of saves to keep Bafana Bafana within reach before the break.

South Africa’s hopes of a comeback suffered a major blow four minutes into the second half when Yaya Sithole received a straight red card for a dangerous tackle, reducing his side to 10 men.

Mexico made the numerical advantage count in the 67th minute as Roberto Alvarado delivered a precise cross into the penalty area for Jiménez to head home and double the lead.

The match grew increasingly heated as frustration mounted within the South African side. Their situation worsened in the 84th minute when substitute Themba Zwane was sent off following a VAR review, leaving Bafana Bafana with nine players.

There was still late drama as Mexico defender César Montes was shown a straight red card deep into stoppage time, reducing the hosts to 10 men before the final whistle.

Despite the late dismissal, Mexico comfortably saw out the closing stages to secure a deserved victory and the perfect start to their World Cup campaign.