Three red cards in World Cup opener as Mexico beat South Africa 2:0
The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup kicked off with cohosts Mexico beating South Africa 2-0.
There were more red cards than goals in the tournament opener played at Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City, where Julian Quinones gave the home side the lead in the first half.
Raul Jiminez added the second in a match that saw the three red cards issued.
South Africa had two players sent off while Mexico had one.
The match was the first of the 23rd edition of football’s global showpiece.
Fellow hosts, Canada and the United States, begin their campaigns on Friday and Saturday respectively – both their matches will also be preceded by opening ceremonies.
Argentina are the defending champions, having lifted the trophy at Qatar 2022, and begin their tournament against Algeria on Wednesday.
The Group A encounter featured a pre-match ceremony headlined by Shakira and Burna Boy.
It quickly turned into an ill-disciplined affair on the pitch. Three red cards were issued, making it the most card-heavy opening match in World Cup history.
9th Minute
Mexico 1-0 South Africa: South Africa's Yaya Sithole turned the ball over on the edge of his own box under pressure from Érik Lira.
Julián Quiñones pounced on the error and slotted a low finish through the legs of Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
49th Minute
First Red Card (South Africa): Yaya Sithole's miserable afternoon ended when he received a straight red card for a professional foul.
He clipped Brian Gutiérrez, who was clean through on goal.
67th Minute
Mexico 2-0 South Africa: Mexico capitalised on their numerical advantage.
Veteran striker Raúl Jiménez peeled away from his markers to powerfully head home a Roberto Alvarado cross.
84th Minute
Second Red Card (South Africa): Following a VAR review, South Africa substitute Themba Zwane was sent off for violent conduct after catching Alvarado in the face with an arm.
90+2 Minute
Third Red Card (Mexico): Mexican captain César Montes received a straight red card for pulling down Khuliso Mudau on the counterattack.
The foul ended the match as a 10-on-9 affair.
Read also: World Cup kicks off in Mexico with Shakira, local performers and vibrant fans
