FIFA World Cup 2026: Mexico Defeat South Africa 2-0 in Opening Match
Kathmandu — The FIFA World Cup 2026 has begun with a win for co-host Mexico. In the opening Group A match completed on Friday morning, Nepal time, Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0.
The match was held at Mexico City Stadium, Estadio Azteca. A total of 104 matches will be played in this edition, which features 48 teams. The tournament is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Julian Quiñones gave Mexico the lead by scoring the first goal in the ninth minute. In the second half, Raúl Jiménez added another goal in the 67th minute to secure Mexico’s victory.
The match also drew attention from a disciplinary point of view. South Africa’s Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane were sent off after receiving red cards. Mexico’s César Montes was also sent off due to a red card in injury time. With this, South Africa ended the match with nine players, while Mexico also completed the final moments with 10 players.
According to Reuters, this was the first time three red cards were shown in a World Cup opening match. After the defeat, South Africa coach Hugo Broos said his team had made a good defensive effort but needed improvement in attack.
The 2026 edition is being held in an expanded World Cup format. This time, teams have been divided into 12 groups, with four teams in each group. The top two teams from each group and the best eight third-placed teams will advance to the Round of 32.
The tournament final is scheduled to be held on 19 July 2026 at New York/New Jersey Stadium in the United States.
Source: FIFA official schedule and tournament format details; Reuters match report and post-match report.
Sports FIFA World Cup 2026