Mexico open World Cup with 2-0 win over South Africa

Mexico began the World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa in the opening match, a game that finished with both sides reduced to 10 and then nine men.

Julian Quinones put the hosts ahead in the ninth minute after a loose pass from South Africa goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune was intercepted and worked into space for the forward to finish through Ronwen Williams. Mexico controlled much of the first half and Quinones also hit the post before the break.

South Africa’s night unravelled after goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was sent off early in the second half for a foul on Gutiérrez. They then fell to nine men when Themba Zwane was dismissed in the 84th minute for striking Adalberto Carrasquilla in the face.

Mexico wrapped up the points in the 67th minute when Edson Álvarez’s cross was headed in by Raúl Jiménez, who reached 47 international goals. Substitute Gilberto Mora also made history, becoming the sixth-youngest player in men’s World Cup history at 17 years and 240 days. César Montes was shown a late red card for Mexico in stoppage time.