- Host Nation Secures Strong Start in Tournament Opener
Mexico’s national football team began its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament’s opening match.
The match was played at the iconic Azteca Stadium, where more than 80,820 spectators gathered to witness the historic opening fixture.
Goals Seal Mexico’s Dominant Performance
Mexico took the lead in the 9th minute when Julián Quiñones found the back of the net, giving the host nation an early advantage.
The second goal came in the 67th minute through veteran striker Raúl Jiménez, who secured the win for Mexico and delighted the home crowd.
Historic Disciplinary Record in Opening Match
The match also entered the record books after referee Wilton Sampaio issued three red cards during the game — the first time in FIFA World Cup history that an opening match has featured three dismissals.
Expanded FIFA World Cup Format Begins
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19.
The tournament is being staged across 16 cities in the three host countries and marks a major change in World Cup history, with 48 teams competing for the first time instead of the previous 32-team format.
BY: The Times Union
