Mexico defeats South Africa 2-0 in the World Cup’s opening match
Goals, red cards and a win for the hosts
Mexico began their World Cup Group A campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in Mexico City, in a match marked by goals, disciplinary drama, and three red cards.
Quinones gave the hosts an early lead in the ninth minute, finishing through the goalkeeper’s legs, before Mexico maintained control throughout the first half as South Africa struggled to create chances.
South Africa were reduced to ten men early in the second half when Sithole was shown a red card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity after a foul on Gutierrez.
Mexico doubled their advantage through Jimenez, who headed home at the back post to strengthen the hosts’ grip on the game.
The match then turned chaotic in the final stages, with substitute Zwane sent off for violent conduct, followed by Mexico captain Montes receiving a red card for a last-man challenge on the edge of the box, both for denying goal-scoring opportunities.
Despite the disciplinary incidents, Mexico held on comfortably to secure all three points in their opening Group A fixture.
