World Cup 2026: Mexico’s Dominant Win Over South Africa, Argentina’s Scoring Chance and More Unforgettable Moments

Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener, with three red cards shown during the match, according to Hong Kong Radio News. The victory marked the first time Mexico has won its opening World Cup match since 1986, while South Africa became the first host nation to lose their opening game in the tournament’s history.

The match, played at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, on June 12, 2026, saw Mexico take an early lead when Rafael Marquez Pozuelo scored in the 23rd minute. Pozuelo, making his World Cup debut, celebrated the goal with a heartfelt gesture, later stating in a post-match interview that the goal was dedicated to his late father, who had passed away earlier in the year. South Africa equalized in the 67th minute through a penalty by Tendai Darikwa, but Mexico restored their lead in the 78th minute via a counterattack goal from Hirving Lozano.

The game was marred by disciplinary issues, with three red cards shown—two to South Africa and one to Mexico. The first red card came in the 38th minute when South Africa’s defender Sipho Mbathela was sent off for a reckless challenge on Mexico’s Javier Aquino. Mexico’s defender Jesús Gallardo received a straight red in the 72nd minute for a foul on South Africa’s Percy Tau, while South Africa’s goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune was dismissed in the 89th minute for a handball in the penalty area. The incidents led to heated exchanges between players and officials, with South Africa’s coach César Sampaio later criticizing the referee’s decisions in a press conference.

The result placed Mexico in a strong position in Group A, alongside Spain and Argentina, while