Mexico Leads South Africa 1-0 at Half-Time in 2026 World Cup Opener

In the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mexico took a 1-0 lead against South Africa at half-time. The game is being held at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

Mexico opened the scoring early, with Julián Quiñones finding the net in the ninth minute, capitalizing on a significant defensive error from the South African side near the penalty area.

🇲🇽⚽️ Julián Quiñones scores the first goal of FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Mexico’s Lineup Against South Africa

Goalkeeper: Raúl Rangel.

Defenders: Jesús Gallardo, John Vasquez, César Montes, Israel Reyes.

Midfielders: Eric Gutiérrez, Eric Lira, Álvaro Fidalgo.

Forwards: Julián Quiñones, Raúl Jiménez, Roberto Alvarado.

South Africa’s Lineup Against Mexico

Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams.

Defenders: Aubrey Modiba, Mbokazi, Sibisi, Imeh Okon, Khuliso Mudau.

Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Sifiso Shitole, Jaiden Adams.

Forwards: Ikram Ryners, Lyle Foster.