New Delhi.The start of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been no less than a dream for host Mexico. Mexico made a winning start to its campaign by defeating South Africa 2–0 in the opening match of the world’s biggest football tournament. More than 80 thousand spectators were present to watch this match played at the historic Azteca Stadium, who supported their team with full enthusiasm.
From the beginning of the match, Mexico adopted an aggressive attitude and maintained constant pressure on the South African team. The Mexican team, fueled by the enthusiasm of the home crowd, took the lead in the ninth minute. Julian Quinones, who performed brilliantly in the Saudi Pro League, took full advantage of the opportunity and sent the ball into the goal post and gave Mexico a 1-0 lead. After this goal the stadium echoed with applause and slogans.
South Africa did try to make a comeback in the first half, but Mexico’s strong defense and midfield foiled all its efforts. Mexico continued to attack and maintained its dominance in the second half as well.
In the 66th minute of the match, experienced striker Raul Jimenez doubled Mexico’s lead by scoring the second goal through a brilliant header. This was the 46th goal of his international career. With this achievement he equaled Mexico’s great striker Jared Borgetti. He is now just six goals behind the country’s all-time top goalscorer, Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez.
Colombia-born 29-year-old Julian Quinones was also the center of attraction in this match. This was his first World Cup appearance for the Mexico national team and he made his debut memorable with a goal. Quinones was among the six players who made their debut on the World Cup stage through this match.
Many scenes of indiscipline were also seen during the match. South Africa’s Spphelo Sithole and Themba Zwane were shown red cards, forcing the team to play with only nine players in the final stages of the match. Mexico defender Cesar Montes also got a red card in injury time. Despite this, South Africa could not reduce Mexico’s lead and lost the match 2–0.
This victory is also important for Mexico because the team could not progress beyond the group stage in the 2022 Qatar World Cup. In such a situation, starting the World Cup campaign with a win on home ground will give a new boost to the team’s confidence.
It is noteworthy that FIFA World Cup 2026 is historical in many ways. For the first time, 48 teams are participating in the tournament. Apart from this, Mexico, Canada and America are jointly hosting this World Cup. For football lovers, this World Cup is considered to be the biggest and grandest event ever. Mexico’s victory has given an exciting start to the tournament and now football fans around the world are looking forward to the upcoming matches.
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