In the opening match of the FIFA 2026 World Cup, co-hosts Mexico faced South Africa in the first week of Group A. Playing in Mexico City at the historic Azteca Stadium, Mexico secured a 2-0 victory to kick off their tournament with 3 points. The goals that brought victory to Mexico were scored by Julian Quinones in the 9th minute and Raul Jimenez in the 67th minute.
The match saw heavy disciplinary action, with South Africa's Yaya Sithole dismissed in the 50th minute and Themba Zwane in the 53rd minute. Mexico's Cesar Montes also received a red card in the 90+2nd minute. In the next match week of the group, Mexico will face South Korea, while South Africa will take on the Czech Republic.
Tournament Info and Key Dates
The FIFA 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, officially kicked off with this opening match on June 11, 2026, featuring an expanded format of 48 teams for the first time in history. This massive football tournament, spanning 16 cities, will last for 6 weeks and conclude with the grand final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the 82,500-capacity New York New Jersey Stadium.
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