Mexico get World Cup party started with win as South Africa see red
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, which was marked by a record-breaking three red cards. Despite the victory, the Mexican coach expressed dissatisfaction with the team's performance.
Why it matters
This match marks the beginning of the first 48-team World Cup hosted across three different countries.
MEXICO CITY — Mexico got the World Cup party started as the co-hosts swept away South Africa 2-0 on Thursday (June 11) in a tempestuous clash with three red cards as the pyrotechnic smoke of the opening ceremony gave way to a cloud of red mist at a rocking Azteca stadium.
The report is a standard sports recap focusing on match events and quotes.
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