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Exactly 16 years after their memorable World Cup opener at the FNB Stadium, Mexico and South Africa once again faced off to launch the 2026 Mundial, this time at a packed Azteca Stadium. Unlike the 2010 clash, where Siphiwe Tshabalala scored first for Bafana Bafana in the 55th minute, it took just nine minutes for Julian Quinones to give El Tri an early lead. The home fans, still buzzing from a spectacular opening ceremony featuring Shakira and Burna Boy, erupted in celebration.
Mexico dominated possession throughout, keeping South Africa pinned in their own half. Before halftime, the hosts had taken ten shots, with only two on target, one hitting the post, and six from inside the box—though their finishing left room for improvement. Bafana Bafana struggled, testing goalkeeper Raul Rangel only twice, with just one attempt posing any real threat.
South Africa returned after the break with more composure, attempting to build from the back, but they were caught out just three minutes into the second half. Quinones capitalized on a defensive lapse and attempted a long-range effort, which posed little threat to Ronwen Williams. Two minutes later, Mexico threatened again when Brian Gutierrez broke through, only to be brought down by Siphephelo Sithole, who was sent off for a foul just outside the box. The resulting free-kick was missed by El Tri.
Mexico extended their lead seven minutes after the hour mark when Raul Jimenez met a perfect cross from Roberto Alvarado to make it 2-0. South Africa held on despite going down to ten men again as 36-year-old Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Themba Zwane received a red card. Cesar Montes also saw red for Mexico in stoppage time.
With this victory, Mexico extends their winning streak to nine consecutive matches, while South Africa remains winless in six games.
Story by Efua Nessa