Mexico vs South Africa: Three Red Cards, Historic Milestones and Ronaldinho's Verdict on World Cup Opener

The 2026 FIFA World Cup got underway in dramatic fashion at Estadio Azteca as co-host Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in a fiercely contested opening match that produced records, milestones and plenty of controversy. The historic encounter was witnessed by Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, who praised the atmosphere and predicted an unforgettable tournament.

Historic Night at the Azteca

Mexico ended a long-standing World Cup opener hoodoo by securing their first opening-match victory after seven consecutive winless starts to previous tournaments. The win came in front of a passionate home crowd at the iconic Estadio Azteca, which hosted its 20th World Cup match — more than any other stadium in tournament history.

The match was marked by intense physicality, heated exchanges and disciplinary drama, with three red cards shown — two to South Africa and one to Mexico. According to ESPN, it was the highest number of red cards ever recorded in a World Cup opening match. It also marked the first time since the 2006 World Cup in Germany that a team received two red cards in a tournament match.

Mexico also extended their remarkable dominance against African opposition, registering a 22nd straight victory across all competitions against teams from the continent. Their last defeat against an African side came against South Africa in the 2005 Gold Cup.

Records Fall as Mexico's Stars Shine

Julian Quinones gave the hosts an early advantage in the ninth minute. According to Sky Sports, it was the second-earliest goal scored in a World Cup since Philipp Lahm found the net six minutes into Germany's opening match against Costa Rica in 2006.

Mexico later doubled their lead through Raul Jimenez, who moved level with Jared Borgetti as the nation's second-highest international goal-scorer. Jimenez now trails Mexico's all-time leading scorer, Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez, by six goals.

Another notable milestone came with the introduction of Gilberto Mora in the second half. At 17 years and 240 days old, Mora became the youngest player ever to represent Mexico at a FIFA World Cup and the sixth-youngest player in the competition's history. He is also the youngest player participating in the ongoing tournament.

Mexico will next face South Korea on June 19.

Ronaldinho Soaks in the Atmosphere

Among the distinguished guests at Estadio Azteca was 2002 World Cup-winning Brazilian icon Ronaldinho, who expressed his delight at returning to Mexico and reconnecting with football legends during the tournament's opening celebrations.

Posting on X, Ronaldinho wrote: "What a joy to return to Mexico for the opening of yet another @FIFAWorldCup!!!! So happy to see all my friends and sports legends again... Surreal energy and a beautiful party from the fans!!!! Everyone knows the affection I have for this country and it's always a huge joy to be here... Let's go, this cup is gonna be way too awesome #fwc26."

His comments reflected the festive mood surrounding the opening match, which combined passionate support, historic achievements and high-intensity football to provide a memorable start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

(With inputs from ANI)