Mexico get World Cup party started with win as South Africa see red

Mexico launched the FIFA World Cup party with a 2-0 victory over South Africa on Thursday, though the opening match at the historic Azteca Stadium was marred by a tempestuous atmosphere and three red cards. Julian Quinones's early strike set the tone for a dominant Mexican performance in the Group A fixture, with Raul Jimenez's second-half header sealing the win and easing any lingering tension for the home crowd.

The scrappy encounter will likely be remembered more for its disciplinary issues than its footballing quality. South Africa saw Sphephelo Sithole sent off early in the second half, followed by teammate Themba Zwane. Mexico's Cesar Montes was also dismissed in the dying moments, resulting in an ill-tempered match that contrasted with the otherwise celebratory party atmosphere.

Despite the chaotic nature of the game, the home crowd celebrated a crucial opening victory, which sets Mexico up favorably to advance from a group that also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic. Coach Javier Aguirre, however, expressed dissatisfaction with his team's performance, stating it should have been a larger margin of victory. This win marks Mexico's first in a World Cup opening match after seven previous attempts. The tournament itself is historic, being the first 48-team edition and the first to be co-hosted by three countries, with the Azteca Stadium becoming the first venue to host three World Cup openers.

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This was a 4-0 match, we didn’t play good enough, but people are happy. It’s the start of the World Cup - we’ve put the nerves behind us and now we have three points. We’re thinking about what’s next.