Estadio Azteca: The FIFA World Cup 2026 got underway with an action-packed opening fixture as co-hosts Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 at the iconic Estadio Azteca. While the hosts secured a comfortable victory, the match entered the record books for an unusual reason — three players were sent off, the highest number of red cards ever shown in a World Cup opening game.
Mexico wasted little time in setting the tone, with Julian Quinones scoring the tournament’s first goal inside the opening ten minutes. The early breakthrough ignited celebrations among more than 80,000 supporters packed into the historic stadium, which became the first venue to host matches across three different FIFA World Cups.
The hosts maintained control throughout the contest and doubled their advantage in the second half when experienced striker Raul Jimenez finished off a swift attacking move with a well-placed header, putting the result beyond South Africa’s reach.
The game, however, took a dramatic turn with a series of dismissals. South Africa’s Sphephelo Sithole received his marching orders early in the second half after bringing down a Mexican attacker through on goal. Their problems worsened when Themba Zwane was shown a straight red card following a VAR review for violent conduct, reducing the African side to nine players.
Despite their numerical superiority, Mexico also ended the match with ten men after defender Cesar Montes was sent off during stoppage time for a reckless challenge near the edge of the penalty area.
The trio of expulsions created a unique piece of World Cup history, making it the first opening match of the tournament to witness three red cards.
Mexico’s dominant display gives them an ideal start in Group A and boosts their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage, while South Africa will need to regroup quickly after a disappointing performance marred by indiscipline.
With an electric atmosphere, early goals and unprecedented disciplinary drama, the tournament opener delivered a memorable beginning to the biggest FIFA World Cup ever staged.
