Mexico vs South Africa
The 2026 World Cup kicked off at the Estadio Azteca, and the co-hosts gave the home crowd exactly the start they wanted.
How the match went
This was the opening match of the whole 2026 World Cup, and it happened at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
The Azteca is the most famous stadium in the country, and it became the first ever to host games at 3 different World Cups.
A full house of 80,824 fans packed in, and the home crowd was loud from the very first minute.
Quiñones settled the early nerves in the 9th minute, and Mexico had the lead their fans were hoping for.
From there Mexico stayed calm and kept control, and they took a 1-0 lead into half-time.
Jiménez added a second goal in the 67th minute, and the game was now firmly in Mexico's hands.
South Africa kept trying, but they could not find a way back.
It was a confident, comfortable start for the co-hosts, and a special night for everyone inside the Azteca.
Key moments
- ⚽ 9' Quiñones (Mexico)
- ⚽ 67' Jiménez (Mexico)
Goals in the order they were scored.
Match highlights
Watch on YouTube- Date
- Thursday, June 11
- Kickoff Time
- 13:00 (Mexico City time)
- Stage
- Group stage, Group A
- Stadium
- Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
- Attendance
- 80,824
- Referee
- Wilton Sampaio (Brazil)
What's next for Mexico?
Mexico play South Korea next, on June 18, in Group A.
South Korea won their opening match 2-1 against the Czech Republic, so this is a real test.
A good result here would put Mexico in a strong position early.
What's next for South Africa?
South Africa play the Czech Republic next, on June 18, in Group A.
The Czech Republic also lost their opener, going down 1-2 to South Korea.
That makes this game close to a must-win for both teams.
Common questions
When and where was Mexico vs South Africa played?
The game was played on June 11, 2026 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. It was the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. The crowd was 80,824.
What was the final score?
Mexico beat South Africa 2-0. Mexico led 1-0 at half-time and added a second goal after the break.
Who scored for Mexico?
Quiñones scored first in the 9th minute. Jiménez scored the second goal in the 67th minute. Both goals were for Mexico.
Who does Mexico play next?
Mexico play South Korea on June 18 in Group A. South Korea won their opener 2-1 against Czech Republic.
Who does South Africa play next?
South Africa play Czech Republic on June 18 in Group A. Both teams lost their first game, so points are important.