Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with Julian Quinones scoring the tournament’s first goal.
El Tri controlled large stretches of a emotionally charged ceremony that celebrated the cup’s return to North America under an expanded 48-team format.
South Africa struggled to convert possession in the final third against a organized Mexican midfield, while home supporters filled the iconic stadium with decades of football history.
The victory gives Mexico early momentum in a group that will test coach tactics against faster counterattacking sides later in the first round.
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Sources:
https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/49038092/world-cup-2026-today-blog-12-06-2026-live-updates-news-fixtures-schedule-results-mexico-south-korea