Mexico opens 48-team World Cup with 2-0 win (opens in new tab)

Mexico began the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca on Thursday, with Julián Quiñones scoring the tournament's first goal in the ninth minute and Raúl Jiménez adding a header in the second half. South Africa finished with nine players after red cards to Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane, while Mexico defender César Montes was sent off in injury time. The match followed an opening ceremony featuring Shakira and Burna Boy performing "Dai Dai," ...