Mexico Kicks Off World Cup Campaign with Victory Over South Africa
Mexico kicked off its FIFA World Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa in Group A at Mexico City Stadium. Julian Quinones opened the scoring in the 9th minute, capitalizing on a giveaway by South Africa. Quinones slotted home a powerful shot after Sphephelo Sithole lost possession, allowing Mexico to take an early lead.
Raul Jimenez doubled Mexico's advantage in the 49th minute, heading home his first-ever World Cup goal from a cross by Roberto Alvarado. The goal marked Jimenez's 46th in Mexico colors, tying him with Jared Borgetti for second all-time in the program's ranks.
The match was also notable for the red cards shown to both teams, a first in a FIFA World Cup opening match. Sphephelo Sithole was sent off for bundling over Brian Gutierrez, while Themba Zwane received a straight red for catching Alvarado in the face. Mexico's Cesar Montes was also given a red card for hacking down Khuliso Mudau.
The win puts Mexico top of Group A with two matches to play. They will face South Korea on June 18, while South Africa takes on Czechia on the same day.
Raul Jimenez doubled Mexico's advantage in the 49th minute, heading home his first-ever World Cup goal from a cross by Roberto Alvarado. The goal marked Jimenez's 46th in Mexico colors, tying him with Jared Borgetti for second all-time in the program's ranks.
The match was also notable for the red cards shown to both teams, a first in a FIFA World Cup opening match. Sphephelo Sithole was sent off for bundling over Brian Gutierrez, while Themba Zwane received a straight red for catching Alvarado in the face. Mexico's Cesar Montes was also given a red card for hacking down Khuliso Mudau.
The win puts Mexico top of Group A with two matches to play. They will face South Korea on June 18, while South Africa takes on Czechia on the same day.
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