Mexico launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in style with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in a dramatic opening match of the tournament.

Played before a packed crowd, the Group A encounter produced plenty of drama as Mexico overcame the African side in a match that saw three players sent off and tempers flare on several occasions.

Despite the chaotic nature of the contest, Mexico remained composed and capitalised on their chances to secure a comfortable win and claim the first three points of their World Cup campaign.

The North Americans controlled large spells of the game and were rewarded with two goals that ultimately proved enough to seal victory against a South African side that struggled to recover from disciplinary setbacks.

The match descended into controversy in the second half as the referee brandished three red cards, disrupting the flow of the game and leaving South Africa with an uphill task.

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This is the first World Cup game to see three straight red cards since South Africa (1) v Denmark (2) in 1998.

Mexico's victory gives them an early advantage in Group A and boosts confidence ahead of their remaining fixtures as they seek a place in the knockout rounds.

For South Africa, the defeat marks a disappointing start to the tournament and leaves Bafana Bafana under pressure to respond in their next match if they are to keep their hopes of progressing alive.

The result also handed Mexico the honour of winning the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, providing the hosts with the perfect start to football's biggest tournament.