Bafana Bafana Defeated as Hosts Mexico Secure 2-0 Victory in World Cup Opener
South Africa endured a tough start to their World Cup journey, losing 2-0 to host nation Mexico in the tournament opener.
HENRY GERCHI 
Mexico City — South Africa’s national team, Bafana Bafana, suffered a difficult start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign after losing 2-0 to tournament co-hosts Mexico in the opening match at the iconic Azteca Stadium.
Mexico took the lead in the ninth minute through Julián Quiñones, who scored the first goal of the tournament, before veteran striker Raúl Jiménez doubled the advantage in the second half to seal victory for the hosts.
The match was marked by intense drama, with a record three red cards shown during a World Cup opening game. South Africa finished with nine men after dismissals for Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane, while Mexico captain César Montes was also sent off late in the game.
The defeat leaves Bafana Bafana with work to do in Group A as they seek to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive. South Africa is making its first World Cup appearance since hosting the tournament in 2010.
Meanwhile, the victory gives Mexico a dream start in front of more than 80,000 home fans and boosts their chances of progressing from the group stage.
