3 Reds, 2 Goals! Drama to Kick off the 2026 World Cup

Photo: Carl Recine/Getty Images

10 man Mexico has downed 9 man South Africa in Mexico City, with Mexico securing a comfortable 2-0 win.

Mexico looked in great form to start this tournament, with many early warning signs showing for South Africa. Mexico dominated from minute 1, and finished the game with 4 times as many shots as South Africa.

Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez could've both grabbed multiple goals, but settled for 1 each. Bryan Gutierrez also looked superb in midfield driving the ball straight past the South African defence on numerous occasions, despite their 5 at the back formation.

South Africa struggled on their return to the world stage with Yaya Sithole delivering one of the worst World Cup performances in recent memory, seeing red as well as Themba Zwane in a harsh call by the referee.

Despite how South Africa struggled to keep up with the intensity of the Mexican side, Cesar Montes for Mexico also saw red late in the game in another controversial decision.

Mexico now look ahead to match day 2, where they face off against South Korea, with South Africa facing Czechia.

Czechia and South Korea meet today in the second game of the World Cup.