Mexico takes a dominant 2-0 win over South Africa in World Cup opener

Mexico downs 2-0 South Africa in World Cup opener rematch. Mexico dominated the match, holding 60% possession through the 90.

Julián Quiñones officially got the 2026 World Cup started in the ninth minute with screamer from just inside the box. The strike found its way through the legs of South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and straight into the back of the net.

Things got exciting in 42nd minute after forward Raúl Jiménez made a deep run and struck a looping pass first touch onto net.

However, Ronwen Williams made a spectacular save, going full extension and keeping the deficit at just one.

Right out of the gate in the second half in the 49th minute, Mexico’s Brain Gutiérrez took a one-on-one towards the South African net.

South African midfielder Sphephelo Sithole took down Gutiérrez from behind and was immediately shown a red card for his tackle.  

Mexico was kept at bay until the 67th minute where Raúl Jiménez would get another opportunity on net, and this one he didn’t miss.

Roberto Alvarado lobbed in long pass from outside the box where Jiménez would meet it full force, heading the ball right onto goal.

The news for South Africa would only get worse as Themba Zwane would also be sent off in the 84th minute after a VAR check concluded he had made forcible contact to the head of Alvarado.

However, this match would have one final bit of excitement. In 90+2 minute of the match, center back César Montes would make a questionable tackle on South African wingback Khuliso Mudau which would lead to a straight red card for the Mexican.

This would mark the first time in a World Cup opener where three red cards had been given.

Mexico finished off the shutout and are now looking forward to their match against South Korea next Thursday at 9 p.m. South Korea themselves will match up against Czechia tonight at 10 p.m.

Follow Adrian Murillo Silva on Instagram @adrianms_official

About the Author Published Jun 11, 2026

ADRIAN MURILLO SILVA

Adrian Murillo Silva covers both MLB and soccer news for Ball Exclusives. He has previously worked with other news publications such as The Lantern, the independent student voice of Ohio State.