By Ernest Kipkirui
The 2026 FIFA World Cup got underway in memorable fashion as hosts Mexico defeated South Africa’s Bafana Bafana 2-0 at the Estadio Azteca following a colorful opening ceremony that celebrated the start of football’s biggest tournament.
Julian Quinones etched his name into World Cup history by scoring the tournament’s first goal, giving the home side an early advantage and sending the packed stadium into celebration. Mexico later sealed the victory through Raul Jimenez, whose goal carried special significance. Six years ago, the striker suffered a serious skull fracture that threatened both his career and his life. His return to the World Cup stage and place on the scoresheet was a powerful reminder of resilience and determination.
However, the match will also be remembered for its disciplinary record. Three red cards were issued, two to South Africa and one to Mexico, making it the first World Cup opening match in history to feature three dismissals. South Africa’s hopes of mounting a comeback faded as the dismissals left them at a numerical disadvantage.
The fixture also carried memories of a World Cup moment from 16 years ago. Mexico and South Africa met in the opening match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in Johannesburg, where Bafana Bafana captain and winger Siphiwe Tshabalala scored one of the most iconic goals in tournament history. His thunderous strike into the top corner sparked wild celebrations across South Africa and remains one of the defining images of the first World Cup held on African soil. While that match ended in a 1-1 draw, this year’s encounter belonged to Mexico, who avenged the dropped points from 2010 with a convincing victory in the tournament opener.
The opening game delivered everything associated with the World Cup from history, emotion, controversy and moments of inspiration. If it is a sign of what lies ahead, football fans around the world are in for an exciting tournament.
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By Ernest Kipkirui, a sports journalist focused on football news and ongoing sporting affairs and events