Co-hosts Mexico began their World Cup campaign with a 2–0 victory over South Africa at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday in a heated encounter that saw three red cards and multiple disciplinary flashpoints.
Julian Quiñones gave Mexico a dream start, finishing in the 9th minute after a well-timed assist from Erik Lira, a goal that sent the home crowd into early celebration.
The match, however, quickly turned tense, with both sides picking up cautions before halftime in what was an increasingly physical contest.
South Africa were reduced to 10 men shortly after the restart when Siphephelo Sithole was shown a straight red card in the 49th minute for a professional foul as the last defender.
Mexico capitalised on the numerical advantage, doubling their lead in the 67th minute through Raúl Jiménez, who calmly converted to put the hosts firmly in control.
Bafana Bafana’s night worsened in the 84th minute when Themba Zwane was sent off for violent conduct, leaving South Africa with nine men.
Mexico, however, also ended the match with a dismissal, as César Montes received a red card in added time, capping a chaotic finish to an already heated encounter.
Despite the disruptions, Mexico held on comfortably to secure all three points in their opening group fixture.
(The Whistler)