Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Alan Smith and Michael Jones

Mexico beat South Africa in World Cup 2026 opening match

  • Mexico beat South Africa 2-0 in a match that kicked off the World Cup 2026 at the Estadio Azteca.
  • Mexico took an early lead against South Africa, with Julián Quiñones scoring the first goal.
  • South Africa's Sphephelo Sithole made an error leading to Mexico's first goal and was later sent off in the second half for denying a goalscoring opportunity.
  • Raul Jimenez doubled Mexico's lead with a powerful header, putting them in full control of the match.
  • The tournament's opening ceremony at the Estadio Azteca featured performances by music icons Shakira, J-Balvin, Maná and more.

IN FULL

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.