Mexico defeats South Africa 2-0 in World Cup opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 2:26 PM
Last updated Jun 12, 2026
At the Estadio Azteca on June 12, Mexico triumphed 2-0 over South Africa in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A opener. South Africa's Sphephelo Sithole conceded an early goal in the ninth minute and was later sent off, joined by Themba Zwane in the 84th minute following a VAR review. Former captain Dean Furman described the match as a "nightmare from start to finish," highlighting that South Africa struggled significantly against a dominant Mexico side. Skipper Ronwen Williams acknowledged the challenges faced in the match, particularly the red cards, while the team's coach Hugo Broos disputed the second red card decision. Fans across the continent reacted to the loss with disappointment and criticism.
- •Mexico scored early, taking the lead in the ninth minute.
- •South Africa had two players sent off during the match.
- •The match was held at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
- •Dean Furman criticized South Africa's performance post-match.
- •Fans expressed disappointment and criticism back home.
- 2:26 PMYahoo Sports — 'Nightmare from start to finish' for South Africa in opener
- 2:26 PMBBC Sport — 'Nightmare from start to finish' for South Africa in opener
"Former captain Dean Furman says South Africa were "miles off it" in their World Cup opener against Mexico, as many on the continent 'hate-watch' Bafana Bafana.
"Former captain Dean Furman says South Africa were "miles off it" in their World Cup opener against Mexico, as many on the continent 'hate-watch' Bafana Bafana.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 12, 2026, 2:26 PM'Nightmare from start to finish' for South Africa in opener
Former captain Dean Furman says South Africa were "miles off it" in their World Cup opener against Mexico, as many on the continent 'hate-watch' Bafana Bafana.
- BBC SportJun 12, 2026, 2:26 PM'Nightmare from start to finish' for South Africa in opener
Former captain Dean Furman says South Africa were "miles off it" in their World Cup opener against Mexico, as many on the continent 'hate-watch' Bafana Bafana.
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