Aguirre unhappy despite Mexico beating South Africa

Mexico manager Javier Aguirre said he was not pleased with his side’s display after their 2-0 win over South Africa in the opening match of Group A at the 2026 World Cup.

Aguirre said Mexico should have gone in at half-time with more than one goal, pointing to a shot that hit the post. He added that his team lost some of its intensity after the second goal, even though it still needed another.

Raúl Jiménez scored Mexico’s second goal and later looked to the sky in tribute to his late father. Aguirre described him as a good professional who has returned with fresh energy, adding that Jiménez has said this will be his World Cup.

The Mexico coach also addressed César Montes’ stoppage-time red card. He said a careless turnover put his side under pressure and forced Montes into the foul, otherwise South Africa might have scored.