Mexico opens World Cup 2026 with win over South Africa amid record red cards

Mexico kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Despite the win, coach Javier Aguirre noted that his players seemed burdened by the emotional weight of playing the opening match before a home crowd.

"The emotional condition was very strong. That's what I think was the cause," Aguirre said after the game, as reported by ESPN. The match was intense and marked by three direct red cards issued by Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio. South Africa received two red cards, while Mexico's defender Cesar Montes received one.

Mexico took the initiative early, with Julian Quinones scoring in the ninth minute after capitalizing on a defensive error. The goal was the fastest in a World Cup opening match since Philipp Lahm scored for Germany in 2006. South Africa struggled to break Mexico's pressure throughout the first half, with the hosts maintaining their 1-0 lead until halftime.

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The emotional condition was very strong. That's what I think was the cause.

The situation worsened for South Africa in the second half. Sphephepho Sithole was shown a straight red card in the 49th minute for fouling Brian Gutierrez. With a man advantage, Mexico pressed on, and Raul Jimenez doubled their lead in the 67th minute with a header. The goal was an emotional moment for Jimenez, who celebrated by dedicating it to his recently deceased father.

South Africa's difficulties continued as Themba Zwane was sent off in the 83rd minute following a VAR review for striking Roberto Alvarado. In injury time, Montes also received a straight red card for denying a clear scoring opportunity. The three red cards set a new record for a World Cup opening match. Despite the win, Aguirre felt his team could have scored more, stating, "The game ended 2-0. It could have been 4-0 and no one would have complained. The most important thing is we got three points."

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The game ended 2-0. It could have been 4-0 and no one would have complained. The most important thing is we got three points.