South Africa starts World Cup with defeat to Mexico, Broos remains optimistic

South Africa suffered a 2-0 loss to Mexico in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Estadio Azteca. Julian Quiñones scored early for the co-hosts, and South Africa's Sphephelo Sithole received a red card early in the second half. Raúl Jiménez added a second goal for Mexico after the hour mark. South Africa will face Czechia on June 18, needing a strong performance to keep their knockout hopes alive. Coach Hugo Broos expressed hope for recovery and improvement in offensive play ahead of the next match, despite the absence of two key players due to red cards.

• 1:10 AMYahoo Sports — “Still possible” for South Africa to reach World Cup knockouts after opening day disaster, says Broos