Mexico, co-host of the 2026 World Cup, perfectly launched its competition by defeating South Africa 2-0 on Thursday, in the opening match of the most expanded tournament in history (48 teams). But this game will be remembered for an unexpected reason:three red cards—two for Bafana Bafana, one for El Tri—a record for an opening World Cup match.
The Azteca enters history
By hosting its third World Cup after 1970 and 1986, the Estadio Azteca—beautifully renovated for the occasion—has become the first stadium in the world to host three World Cups. A fitting tribute for this iconic venue of over 80,000 seats, where the green fever of Mexican fans didn’t take long to erupt.
This was the eighth time Mexico had played in the opening match of a World Cup. Record before 2026: five losses, two draws. This 2-0 win is therefore its very first victory in an opening match. Ironically, the last draw dates back to 2010, also against South Africa… the host nation at the time.
An early goal by Quiñones
Mexican fans had to wait only nine minutes before erupting in celebration. Julián Quiñones, top scorer in the Saudi league this season, beat Ronwen Williams with a low shot between the legs of the South African goalkeeper.
One stat: this goal is the fastest scored in a World Cup since Philipp Lahm’s for Germany against Costa Rica in the 6th minute in 2006.
Three red cards: a record of indiscipline
While the score was decisive, the match was overshadowed by the strict refereeing of Brazilian Wilton Pereira Sampaio.
First half: Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole (South Africa) was sent off early in the second half for a serious foul on Brian Gutiérrez as he broke toward goal.
Second half: Themba Zwane (South Africa) was also sent off after a kick to the face of Roberto Alvarado, who was penalized after a VAR review.
Added time: César Montes (Mexico) received a third red card, almost evening the tally.
Note: This is the first time since 2006 (Netherlands – Portugal, 2 red cards each) that a team has received two red cards in a World Cup match. With three expulsions in total, this 2026 edition is now just one red card away from the all-time record (4) set in Qatar in 2022.
Raúl Jiménez enters the history books
Despite the temporary numerical advantage, Mexico did not waver. In the second half, veteran striker Raúl Jiménez slotted the ball into the net from close range to give his team the lead.
This goal has a threefold historical significance:
His 46th international goal, Jiménez joins Jared Borgetti in second place on Mexico’s all-time scoring list.
He is now just six goals behind the legendary leader, Javier “Chicharito” Hernández.
It is his first World Cup goal after three appearances.
A young prodigy makes history
The Mexican coach also handed a first World Cup cap to Gilberto Mora in the second half. At 17 years and 240 days old, he becomes:
the youngest Mexican player to feature in a World Cup,
the sixth youngest player in the competition’s history.
The impact on Group A
With this victory, Mexico secures three valuable points in Group A. Next match: next Thursday in Guadalajara against South Korea.
South Africa, for its part, will need to recover after a nightmare evening (2-0 defeat, two red cards). The Bafana Bafana will face the Czech Republic on the same day in Atlanta.
Analysis: a spectacular start, but at what cost?
This opening match will be remembered for its intensity, record early bookings, and lack of discipline, but also for its symbolism: the Azteca, a centenary venue, now the stage for three World Cups. However, the three red cards – including two shown to the same team – raise questions about the players' emotional control under pressure. For Mexico, the essentials are in place: three points and a winning start after decades of frustration. For South Africa, the road ahead looks fraught with challenges.
