Mexico earns victory over South Africa at the Azteca

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 1:23 AM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Mexico earns victory over South Africa at the Azteca
Summary

Mexico triumphed 2-0 over South Africa in their World Cup opener at Estadio Ciudad de México, commonly known as the Azteca, on Thursday. The occasion provided fans a much-needed escape from ongoing protests and street tensions in Mexico City. Julián Quiñones scored early in the match, capitalizing on a defensive error. Despite being seen as underdogs, South Africa struggled against the enthusiastic crowd. Mexico coach Javier Aguirre celebrated the win, reminiscent of his previous experiences, with the stadium echoing cheers from enthusiastic fans.

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By the Numbers
  • Mexico scores twice to secure win in World Cup opener
  • Julián Quiñones opens scoring early in the match
  • Azteca stadium filled with vibrant fans despite protests
  • Javier Aguirre recalls past successes with national team
  • Match serves as a momentary escape for local tensions
Latest Updates
  • 1:23 AMYahoo SportsA thunderous triumph at the Azteca offers respite from strife on Mexico City’s streets
  • 1:23 AMThe Guardian SportTriumph at the Azteca offers respite from strife on Mexico City’s streets | Pablo Iglesias Maurer
What they're saying
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One of football’s great arenas roared as El Tri eased past South Africa, offering fans a fleeting escape from the tensions gripping the capital The walk to Estadio Ciudad de México – most fans know it as the Azteca – on Thursday did a pretty good job of laying out the two sides of Mexico as the World Cup kicked off. Flanked by volunteers and channeled towards the stadium by steel barriers, the lucky few to have scored a ticket to the tournament’s opener between Mexico and South Africa chanted, waved the country’s tricolor flag and cracked beers in the middle of the street. The path was flanked with performers, the sound of traditional banda music providing a festive atmosphere. Continue reading...

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One of football’s great arenas roared as El Tri eased past South Africa, offering fans a fleeting escape from the tensions gripping the capital

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