Mexico defeats South Africa as World Cup opening match sets red‑card record

The inaugural game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca saw the host nation beat South Africa 2–0. Mexico’s first goal came early in the ninth minute, and a second header in the 67th minute secured the win.

The match made history by issuing three direct red cards – the first time an opening World Cup fixture has seen that many dismissals. South Africa’s player Sito received a red card in the 49th minute, followed by a second South African, Zuan, after a VAR‑reviewed assault in the 84th minute, and a Mexican player was sent off during stoppage time. This tied the tournament’s record for red cards in a single game, a record previously approached by the 2006 Portugal‑Netherlands quarter‑final which featured four.

Celebrations erupted across Mexico as fans poured onto the streets, while the early excitement was shared by Mexican expatriates watching from abroad.