League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Mexico defeats South Africa 2-0 to open 2026 World Cup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 2:18 AM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Mexico defeats South Africa 2-0 to open 2026 World Cup

Summary

The 2026 World Cup officially kicked off at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11, with Mexico facing South Africa. Mexico secured a 2-0 victory, starting with an early goal from Julian Quinones. Raúl Jiménez added a second goal in the 67th minute, capitalizing on a cross from Roberto Alvarado. The opening ceremony included performances from Salma Hayek, Shakira, and J Balvin, celebrating the tournament's return to North America. The tournament features 48 nations competing across the three host countries, with the next matches scheduled for June 12 in Toronto and Los Angeles.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Salma Hayek and Shakira performed at the opening ceremony.
•Julian Quinones scored the first goal for Mexico in the 9th minute.
•Raúl Jiménez sealed the victory with a goal in the 67th minute.
•South Africa's Sphephelo Sithole received a red card during the match.
•Next matches feature Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. Canada and the U.S. vs. Paraguay.

Latest Updates