MEXICO 2-0 SOUTH AFRICA
Jun 11, 2026
Att. 80,824 • Estadio Banorte
MEXICO CITY — After a colorful ceremony highlighting Mexico’s culture and traditions, viewers and fans were welcomed to the 2026 World Cup after a long 4-year wait. Things officially kicked off at the historic Estadio Banorte between Mexico and South Africa. Mexico came into the match having had a successful send-off tour where a week before their first match they had defeated Slovenia 5-1. South Africa on the other hand had an underwhelming and disappointing time preparing for the tournament as they drew in three of their four friendlies while losing one.
Mexico started the first half hot and fast paced as forward Raúl Jiménez failed to capitalize on a cross from Israel Reyes as his shot was saved by South Africa’s goalie Ronwen Williams very early into the game. Despite the missed chance Mexico was able to give their jam packed crowd a reason to celebrate as in the 9th minute of the first half Erik Lira forced South Africa to lose possession of the ball after a short goal kick that forward Julian Quinones found and easily snuck it through William’s legs to give Mexico a 1-0 lead. After the Quinone’s goal Mexico chose to play a much conservative safe style to maintain their lead as South Africa only had one shot compared to the numerous chances Mexico had.
In the second half Mexico took full control over the game,it was a half filled with plenty of red cards and missed chances from Mexico. Right out of the gate, Mexico’s Alvaro Fidalgo intercepted a goal kick and was unable to score as South Africa’s defenders immediately closed in on him giving him no space for a clear shot. South Africa’s first red card came in the 49th minute when their defender Sphephelo Sithole purposely brought down Brian Gutiérrez outside of the box in a one one one situation.
After numerous close attempts that could’ve extended the lead, Mexico finally broke through to make it 2-0 after a cross from Roberto Alvarado that Raúl Jiménez found and headed into the back of the net, Jiménez was very emotional and tearing up following the goal. The Estadio Banorte gave Jiménez and the players leaving the field to be subbed off a standing ovation, even getting much louder for Mexico’s starboy Gilberto Mora when he was subbed on.
One of the major mistakes Mexico made was when defender Cesar Montes recklessly took down one of South Africa’s attackers near the final moments of the match which caused him to get a red card and miss the next game. Mexico held control of the match almost entirely maintaining good possession and creating chances that just weren’t put away. If Mexico continues to develop their play as well as finishing clear opportunities they should be one of the best sides as they possess a very talented midfield and forwards that just need the confidence to put the ball in the back of the net.
Mexico will have a week to prepare for their second group stage match against a South Korea side who beat Czech Republic 2-1 later in the day. The team has announced that they will be wearing their third black kit in the match against South Korea in the Estadio Akron. Nevertheless Mexico got the win and three points to kick off the 2026 World Cup on the right foot.
- Alessandro Flores
