Mexico started the 2026 World Cup off exactly as it hoped, scoring on either side of halftime to beat South Africa 2-0 in a match dominated by the home side. El Tri had the lead after just nine minutes, with Julian Quinones finishing past South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams from just outside the box. Mexico started the second half strong as well, with Brian Gutierrez running free toward goal in the 49th minute, only to be taken down by Sphephelo Sithole, who was shown a red card. The lead was doubled in the 67th minute as México forward Raul Jimenez nodded in a cross from Roberto Alvarado. Read more at the link in usatodaysports bio. #WorldCup #2026WorldCup #MEXRSA #MEXvsRSA 📷: Carl Recine/Luke Hales/Getty Images; Yuri Cortez, Rodrigo Oropeza/AFP via Getty Images