By Nabakiibi Dorren Malaika
Sixteen years after South Africa opened the 2010 World Cup against Mexico in a 1-1 draw at Soccer City, the two sides met again in another tournament opener, this time with Mexico as co-hosts. In 2026, Mexico turned the script around, beating Bafana Bafana 2-0 at a packed Mexico City Stadium on Thursday night.
Backed by more than 80,000 home fans, Mexico made a fast start and went ahead in the 8th minute through Julian Andrés Quiñones. The forward found space behind the South African defence and finished past captain Ronwen Williams to give the hosts early control.
South Africa tried to settle after the early setback, but Mexico stayed organised and looked dangerous on the break.
The match became more physical as it wore on, with Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio forced into a busy night.
South Africa’s task became harder five minutes after the restart when Yaya Sithole was shown a straight red card for DOGSO, denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity. Down to ten men, Bafana Bafana struggled to keep Mexico quiet.
Mexico made the extra man count in the 66th minute when Raúl Jiménez rose to head in a well-delivered cross and make it 2-0.
South Africa were reduced to nine men in the 82nd minute after a VAR review, with Themba Zwane sent off for serious foul play. The decision killed off any real hope of a late comeback.
Mexico also finished the match with ten men after César Montes was sent off in added time, also for DOGSO.
The match ended with three red cards and several bookings, but Mexico walked away with the result they needed. The result sends Mexico to the top of Group A with three points and a positive goal difference.
The co-hosts will now turn their attention to a clash against South Korea on 19 June, while South Africa will look to bounce back when they face the Czechia on 18 June.
Group A continues this morning with South Korea taking on Czechia at the Estadio Guadalajara in Zapopan.
