The 2026 FIFA World Cup got underway in spectacular fashion as the opening matches delivered goals, drama, and memorable moments.
Co-hosts Mexico began their campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa, while South Korea came from behind to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 in the other Group A fixture.
Mexico 2-0 South Africa: Red Cards Dominate the Opener
At the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico made a winning start in front of more than 80,000 fans by defeating South Africa 2-0.
Julián Quiñones made history by scoring the first goal of the 2026 World Cup in the ninth minute, before veteran striker Raúl Jiménez added a second-half goal to seal victory and end South Africa’s hopes of a comeback.
However, the match was largely remembered for the three red cards issued by referee Wilton Sampaio. South Africa finished the game with nine players after Sphephelo Sithole was sent off for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity, while Themba Zwane received a red card following a VAR review that found he had struck an opponent in the face.
Mexico also ended the match with ten men after César Montes was shown a red card in stoppage time. The three dismissals set a new record for the most red cards ever issued in a World Cup opening match.
South Korea 2-1 Czech Republic: Impressive Comeback
In the second Group A match played in Guadalajara, the Czech Republic appeared on course for victory when captain Ladislav Krejí opened the scoring in the 59th minute from a corner kick.
South Korea responded strongly. Midfielder Hwang In-beom equalized in the 67th minute before providing the assist for Oh Hyeon-gyu, who scored the winning goal in the 80th minute.
The victory gives South Korea an early advantage in the group standings. Star players Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in played key roles in leading the attack, while the Czech Republic struggled to cope with South Korea’s pace and possession in the second half.
Group A Standings After Matchday One
Mexico – 3 points
South Korea – 3 points
Czech Republic – 0 points
South Africa – 0 points
The results set up an exciting battle in Group A, with Mexico and South Korea making strong starts in their pursuit of qualification for the knockout stage.
