BREAKING: Mexico defeat South Africa in chaotic World Cup opener as three players sent off
The 2026 World Cup is officially underway, with co-host Mexico opening the tournament Thursday with a 2-0 win over South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Julián Quiñones gave El Tri an early lead with the first goal of the tournament just nine minutes in, before Raúl Jiménez doubled the advantage in the second half to secure the victory in the opening match according to Yahoo Sport.
It’s a historic setting for the start of the competition, with Estadio Azteca becoming the first stadium to host matches at three different men’s World Cups, having previously staged games in 1970 and 1986.
Later Thursday, the action continues in Guadalajara, where South Korea and Czechia meet at Estadio Akron to close out the opening day of group stage play.
The festivities began early Thursday with an Opening Ceremony featuring Shakira, Colombian singer J Balvin, Mexican pop-rock band Maná, as well as Latin music stars Belinda, Alejandro Fernández, Los Ángeles Azules, Lila Downs and Danny Ocean.
Details Later…