The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicked off with a grand opening ceremony and an exciting match, with co-hosts Mexico beating South Africa 0-2 to get off to a successful start.
In the first match of the World Cup, which was played at the historic stadium of Mexico City (Estadio Azteca) in Mexico City, the host team played strongly from the beginning. For Mexico, Julian Quinones gave his team the lead in the first half, while veteran striker Raul Jimenez scored the second goal to seal the win.
In the first match of the 23rd round of the FIFA World Cup, the South African team did not stand up to Mexico’s pressure and defensive mistakes aggravated their problems. Indiscipline in the match was also on the South African team, as 2 of its players were sent off with red cards and a total of 3 red cards were issued in the match. According to reports, 2 red cards were shown to a South African player and one to a Mexican player.
2 – South Africa are the first team to receive two red cards in a FIFA World Cup competition since 2006, when Portugal and the Netherlands had two players sent off in their round of 16 clash.
Nuremberg. pic.twitter.com/BkrS3TSngx
– OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) June 11, 2026
This defeat was disappointing for South Africa in many ways. It is worth noting that in the opening match of the 2010 World Cup, Mexico and South Africa also met and the match was 1-1, but this time Mexico completely dominated and did not give the opponent any chance.
According to statistics, South Africa has become the first team to receive 2 red cards in a World Cup tournament. Earlier in the 2006 World Cup, in the knockout stage match between Portugal and the Netherlands, two players from both teams were dismissed.
A colorful ceremony was also held before the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, highlighting the host country’s commitment to football and culture. In this competition, which is the biggest tournament in the history of the World Cup, a total of 104 matches will be played.
Co-hosts Canada and the United States open their campaigns on Friday and Saturday respectively, while defending champions Argentina play their first match against Algeria.
Mexico have already sent a clear message in the match that they are not only the hosts but also among the serious contenders for the title, while South Africa will have to improve both their performance and discipline to bounce back in the upcoming matches.
