In the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mexico secured a dominant 3-0 victory over South Africa on June 11, 2026, at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The match was notable for three red cards, two issued to South African players and one to a Mexican player.
Mexico took an early lead in the 15th minute through a goal from forward Raúl Jiménez, who converted a penalty after a foul in the box. The lead was doubled in the 32nd minute when Hirving Lozano scored from a counter-attack. South Africa's hopes were dashed when defender Thapelo Morena was sent off in the 40th minute for a second yellow card.
In the second half, Mexico continued to press, and Jesús Corona made it 3-0 in the 58th minute with a close-range finish. South Africa's misery deepened when midfielder Teboho Mokoena received a straight red card in the 65th minute for a dangerous tackle. Mexico's Edson Álvarez was also sent off in the 78th minute for a similar offense, but the result was already secure.
The victory puts Mexico at the top of Group A, with their next match scheduled against Portugal on June 16. South Africa will face Portugal on June 12 in a must-win game to keep their tournament hopes alive.
