Mexico Defeats South Africa 2-0 in 2026 World Cup Opener at Estadio Azteca

Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. Julian Quinones scored for the hosts in the eighth minute, and the lead held for the remainder of the match. A German national died at Gate 1 of the stadium hours before kickoff after suffering a suspected heart attack.

Emergency responders performed CPR on the man, who was later pronounced dead. Referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio issued three red cards during the match. South Africa's Yaya Sithole received the first in the second half after fouling Brian Gutierrez and denying a goal-scoring opportunity.

The Independent reported that Sithole will miss South Africa's next match against Czechia on June 18, 2026. South Africa's Themba Zwane received the second red card in the 84th minute after slapping Roberto Alvarado. Mexico's Cesar Montes received the third red card in the closing minutes after fouling Khuliso Mudau and denying a goal-scoring opportunity.

The Independent noted that this was the first time three red cards were shown in a single World Cup opening match and the seventh time three or more red cards have been shown in a World Cup match overall. The pre-match ceremony at Estadio Azteca began roughly one hour before kickoff with a dance routine highlighting Aztec culture. Danny Ocean, Los Ángeles Azules, and J Balvin also performed.

Estadio Azteca previously hosted the opening matches of the 1970 and 1986 FIFA World Cups. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States.