Mexico began their 2026 World Cup journey in the best possible way, claiming a 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament’s opening match on Thursday. Goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez sealed a comfortable win for the Group A favourites in a contest that saw three red cards issued in the second half.

El Tri nearly took an early lead within the first five minutes when Israel Reyes found Jimenez at the edge of the box, but the striker’s first-time effort was well saved by Ronwen Williams.

However, Mexico didn’t have to wait long to open the scoring. Erik Lira pressed well to win the ball 20 yards from goal, allowing Quinones to latch onto it and slot between Williams’ legs after just nine minutes.

Javier Aguirre’s side continued to dominate proceedings before the break, with Quinones striking the post and Bryan Gutierrez missing a good chance after being set up by Quinones.

South Africa’s hopes of a comeback were crushed early in the second half when Sphephelo Sithole received a red card for bringing down Gutierrez as the midfielder raced towards goal.

Mexico doubled their advantage midway through the second half when Jimenez rose highest to head home Roberto Alvarado’s cross, marking his first World Cup start with a goal.

South Africa’s frustrations grew when Themba Zwane was also sent off for striking Alvarado, though Mexico captain Cesar Montes was dismissed late on for a foul on Khuliso Mudao.

Here’s how Mexico’s players rated from the match in Mexico City:

Goalkeeper & Defence

Raul Rangel (5/10): Quick off his line to deal with counters but his handling was shaky. Didn’t face any major saves.

Israel Reyes (6/10): Supported the attack well and delivered some fine crosses, particularly for Jimenez’s early opportunity. Steady defensively.

Cesar Montes (6/10): Stepped up to intercept play several times and carried the ball forward confidently. Very unfortunate to be sent off in stoppage time for what looked like a minor trip.

Johan Vasquez (6/10): Rarely troubled and executed his defensive duties efficiently.

Jesus Gallardo (6/10): His overlapping runs allowed Quinones to cut inside and create danger, though most of his crosses were blocked.

Midfield

Erik Lira (8/10): Displayed great energy to press Sithole and win possession before setting up Quinones’ opener. Used the ball smartly, finding clever passing lanes, and shielded the defence effectively.

Alvaro Fidalgo (6/10): Linked play neatly in midfield, though he might have done better with his shooting chance early in the second half.

Brian Gutierrez (5/10): Several of his passes lacked precision, and he wasted a key chance late in the first half. However, he did well to draw the foul that led to Sithole’s red card.

Attack

Roberto Alvarado (6/10): Had a quiet game on the right but produced an excellent cross for Jimenez’s goal.

Raul Jimenez (7/10): Could have had more than one goal but kept pushing and finally scored his first World Cup goal at 35. Linked up play nicely throughout.

Julian Quinones (8/10): Made history with the opening goal and grew in confidence as the game progressed. Hit the post and created chances for teammates, including Gutierrez, while also contributing to the second goal.

Substitutes & Manager

Luis Chavez (6/10): Carried the ball forward well on a few occasions.

Gilberto Mora (6/10): Received a warm reception and kept possession tidy from midfield.

Edson Alvarez (5/10): Came on for the final 15 minutes to replace Lira.

Armando Gonzalez (5/10): Substituted in for Jimenez in the closing minutes.

Alexis Vega (5/10): Replaced Quinones just before the 80th minute.

Javier Aguirre (7/10): His side handled the pressure of the occasion well and started aggressively. Though Mexico could have scored more given their numerical advantage, it was still a composed and professional performance.