Following the World Cup opening match between Mexico and South Africa (2-0), here’s a summary of the initial reactions from the international press.
Mexico’s Uninspiring but Victorious Start
MEXICO
El Universal: ‘The Mexican national team opens the 2026 World Cup with a lackluster victory. However, the stadium in Mexico City recalled its past and the fact that it was once the legendary Estadio Azteca. The venue, hosting its third World Cup this afternoon, vibrated like never before.’
South Africa’s Disappointing Debut
SOUTH AFRICA
Kickoff: ‘More red cards than goals — Bafana Bafana start with a disappointing performance.’
Italian Perspective on the Match
ITALY
La Gazzetta dello Sport: ‘Two goals, two red cards – and no problem for Aguirre’s Mexicans. South Africa struggles and appears technically and tactically inferior.’
Spanish Excitement Over Mexico’s Win
SPAIN
AS: ‘Beautiful, beloved, and victorious Mexico! South Africa could not counter the fighting spirit, the will to win, and the attractive football of the hosts.’
MARCA: ‘¡Mexico, que lindo! — Mexico, how beautiful! What a World Cup opener, absolutely insane! A fantastic debut for Mexico with goals from Quinones and Raul Jimenez in a historic match with three send-offs, THREE!’
French Analysis of Mexico’s Dominance
FRANCE
L’Equipe: ‘Mexico is master in its own house. After Julian Quinones, the top scorer in the Saudi Pro League this season, quickly took the lead, Mexico dominated the game and was never truly threatened.’
USA Today Hails Mexico’s Strong Start
USA
USA Today: ‘Mexico steamrolls South Africa in the World Cup opener amidst a red card storm. Mexico has begun the 2026 World Cup exactly as it hoped.’
Swiss Report on Emotional Moments
SWITZERLAND
Blick: ‘Two goals, three red cards, and a goalscorer who bursts into tears. The World Cup opening match between Mexico and South Africa ends with the host having the better outcome. There is no Hand of God in the Mexicans’ opening match against South Africa. Nor a goal of the century. But there are very, very big emotions. When Raul Jimenez scores the redeeming second goal for his Mexicans, he breaks down in tears, points his arm to the sky, and pays tribute to his father Don, who passed away in March.’
English Warning from the Opener
ENGLAND
The Sun: ‘Three dismissals in a completely crazy World Cup opener – England is immediately warned by a potential rival. The World Cup kicked off with red card madness. And an early warning for England about a potential round of 16 opponent.’