According to Yonhap News, Mexico, ranked 14th by FIFA, defeated South Africa, ranked 60th, in the first match of Group A held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 12 (Korean time).
Julian Quinones scored the opening goal just nine minutes into the match, giving Mexico an early lead.
Quinones, a former member of Colombia's U-20 national team, became a naturalized citizen in 2023 and was the top scorer in the Saudi Arabian league while playing for Al-Qadisiyah during the 2025-26 season.
As Mexico sought to maintain a stable flow of play, South Africa attempted to respond with set pieces, particularly around the hydration break introduced for the World Cup. Despite this, Mexico did not dominate the game after their first goal, and South Africa managed to hold their ground relatively well in the first half. However, the match shifted dramatically in Mexico's favor just four minutes into the second half due to a red card issued to South Africa.
As Gutierrez attempted to dribble into the penalty area, he was pushed down by South African midfielder Sphephelo Sithole near the penalty arc. The referee immediately issued a red card, leaving South Africa at a numerical disadvantage.
With one player down, South Africa substituted goalkeeper Foster for midfielder Talente Mbatha in an effort to prevent further goals. Mexico also made substitutions, bringing on 2008-born midfielder Hilberto Mora for Pidal in the 66th minute.
At just 17 years and 240 days old, Mora set a record as the youngest Mexican player to appear in a World Cup.
Taking advantage of their numerical superiority, Mexico secured their victory with a second goal from Jimenez in the 67th minute.
South Africa's attempts to retaliate were thwarted when midfielder Temba Zwane, who came on as a substitute, was sent off for a reckless foul on Alvarado in the 84th minute.
While Mexico had firmly established their lead, Montes from the central defense received a red card for a foul on South Africa's Kuliso Mudau during stoppage time, ruling him out of the upcoming match against South Korea.
Meanwhile, the South Korean national team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, is set to play their first match in Group A against the Czech Republic at the Estadio Guadalajara in Sapopan at 11 a.m. on the same day.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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