Mexico defeats nine-man South Africa in World Cup opener
Friday June 12, 2026
Raul Jimenez (up C) and Jesus Gallardo (up L) of Mexico vie for a header during the match. (Xinhua/Wu Wei)
Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez struck in either half as co-host Mexico opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory over nine-man South Africa on Thursday.
Quinones pounced on a turnover to put Mexico ahead early in the Group A contest, and South Africa’s task grew tougher when Sphephelo Sithole was shown a red card for dragging down Brian Gutierrez.
Jimenez later headed in…