World Championship opening match – three red cards and Mexico's victory over South Africa

2026-06-12 00:04 © AP

The opening match of the 2026 World Cup took place. The hosts Mexico hosted the South African Republic national team.

Julian Quinones led Mexico forward in the 9th minute. The hosts tried to pressure the goalkeeper, which paid off as he made a mistake.

In the 49th minute, another important moment occurred. Due to a last-hope foul, South Africa's defender Siphephelo Sithole received a red card.

In the 67th minute, Raúl Jiménez doubled the score, scoring his first goal in the World Cup.

Themba Zwane was sent off in the 84th minute for unsporting behavior, leaving South Africa with nine players.

However, Mexico also had its response to the reds. César Montes left Mexico down to ten men during added time.

In the next group match, the Czech Republic will face South Korea early in the morning.