The World Cup 2026 opening match between Mexico and South Africa was marred by three red cards, a stark contrast to the entire 2022 tournament which saw only four dismissals across 64 games. The first incident occurred in the 49th minute when Yaya Sithole fouled Gutierrez near the penalty area, resulting in a direct red card. Later, in the 84th minute, after reviewing video footage on the sideline, the referee confirmed Themba Zwane struck Alvarado in the face, leading to the South African player's dismissal.

South Africa became the first team to receive two red cards in a World Cup match since 2006, when both Portugal and the Netherlands each had two players sent off in the round of 16. The drama continued into the second minute of stoppage time, when Mexico's Cesar Montes committed a dangerous foul on right-back Khuliso Mudau and was also sent off.

Cesar Montes (in blue) fouled Khuliso Mudau and received a direct red card. *Photo: Reuters*

According to Sky Sports journalist Sam Blitz, only one red card, Sithole's, was clearly justified, while the other two incidents were highly controversial. He also noted that referee Wilton Sampaio had made several contentious decisions when officiating the World Cup 2022 quarter-final match between England and France. Similarly, former player Gary Neville expressed surprise at Montes's dismissal. "I was shocked when the referee pulled out the red card. It was a match where no one expected to see three red cards", he commented on ITV.

Following a brief opening ceremony – highlighted by Shakira and Burna Boy performing the song "Dai Dai" – fans at Azteca Stadium continued to enjoy the festive atmosphere. Blind tenor Andrea Bocelli delivered an emotional and powerful performance of the World Cup theme song "DNA", collaborating with Golden Globe-winning singer-songwriter EJAE, to an enthusiastic reception from the stands. As a World Cup 2026 Ambassador, actress Salma Hayek appeared on stage and welcomed fans, calling it "the biggest football festival on the planet", further electrifying the atmosphere in Mexico City.

Immediately after, the flag parade ceremony for the 48 participating teams took place on the field. Each national flag was carried onto the pitch by representatives, creating a solemn yet vibrant spectacle, marking an iconic moment for the global football festival. Notably, when the United States' national flag appeared, a section of the crowd booed, while co-host Mexico received enthusiastic cheers when its name was announced at Azteca, creating a distinct emotional contrast in the stands.

The flag parade ceremony for the 48 participating teams before Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa in the opening round of Group A at World Cup 2026 at Azteca Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico on 11/6. *Photo: Reuters*

Exactly 16 years ago, South Africa and Mexico faced each other in the opening match of the first World Cup held on the African continent. In that historic game, Siphiwe Tshabalala scored an iconic goal, erupting the home crowd in celebration. Soon after, Rafael Marquez – then Mexico's captain – scored to secure a 1-1 draw. In the World Cup 2026 rematch, Marquez was again present on the coaching staff as an assistant to head coach Javier Aguirre, providing a special link between two generations of Mexican football.

Julian Quinones scored the opening goal and celebrated with his teammates. *Photo: Reuters, AP*

At Azteca Stadium yesterday, Mexico dominated the match. The World Cup co-host controlled possession 61%, taking 16 shots with four on target – compared to South Africa's three shots and two on target. In the 9th minute, Julian Quinones capitalized on a defensive error by South Africa with a powerful shot through goalkeeper Ronwen Williams' legs, igniting the stadium. Quinones was the top scorer in the Saudi Pro League 2025-2026 with 33 goals for Al Qadsiah, ahead of Ivan Toney (32) and Cristiano Ronaldo (28).

In the second half, Mexico's biggest star, Raul Jimenez, made his mark. In the 67th minute, Roberto Alvarado delivered a cross for the forward, who previously played for Fulham and Wolves in the English Premier League, to head in from close range, securing the 2-0 victory.

Raul Jimenez celebrates emotionally. *Photo: Reuters*

Alongside the festive atmosphere and activities inside Azteca Stadium, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum issued a decree to alleviate traffic congestion around the capital before the World Cup opening match. According to this decision, all public and private schools at every level would temporarily close on match day. Additionally, federal agencies were instructed to implement remote work for office personnel, while the private sector was encouraged to facilitate work-from-home arrangements for non-essential jobs. Government officials also emphasized this measure aimed to improve road safety and accessibility for city residents and international visitors during the tournament.

In the second round on 18/6, Mexico will face South Korea in Guadalajara, while South Africa will travel to the United States to play the Czech Republic.

Hong Duy