South Africa began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on a disappointing note after suffering a 2-0 defeat to one of the tournament hosts, Mexico, in their opening Group stage encounter.
Mexico took an early lead in the ninth minute through Julian Quiñones, who found the back of the net to give El Tri a dream start before their home supporters.
The hosts maintained their advantage into the break and sealed the victory in the second half when experienced striker Raúl Jiménez doubled Mexico’s lead to put the result beyond the reach of Bafana Bafana.
The encounter was also marred by disciplinary issues, with the referee issuing three red cards during the match.
South Africa were reduced to nine men after Okon and Themba Zwane were both sent off, while Mexico’s César Montes also received his marching orders.
The defeat leaves South Africa with work to do in their remaining group fixtures as they seek to keep their hopes of progressing to the knockout stages alive, while Mexico made a winning start to their World Cup campaign. :::
