Mexico began their World Cup campaign in perfect fashion, securing a comfortable win over South Africa in a match that saw three red cards and an emotional Raul Jimenez goal. The atmosphere at the Estadio Azteca reached fever pitch following the opening ceremony.
Fast Start for Hosts
Julian Quinones scored the fastest goal in a World Cup opener in twenty years, ensuring there would be no repeat of the South African hope that ignited the tournament 16 years ago. The Mexican fans saw their enthusiasm matched by their team's exploits as they got off to the best possible start, with the visitors finishing with nine men.
Sixteen years ago, Mexico and South Africa opened the World Cup in Johannesburg. Siphiwe Tshabalala's goal is etched into tournament history, but on that day the hosts were pegged back by a late equalizer from Mexican icon Rafael Marquez. There would be no repeat this time, as Mexico's early goal put them in the ascendancy and they never looked back.
Jimenez Shines
Raul Jimenez saw an early effort well saved, but it was only delaying the inevitable in front of a partisan crowd. The Wolves frontman was on hand to head home his team's second goal just after the hour mark, all but making the game safe. Jimenez had to hold back tears as he celebrated in front of 83,000 fans.
If Mexico top their group, they could play their last 32 and last 16 games in their capital city. The atmosphere in and around Mexico City underlined the influence of home advantage and could prove crucial to one of the three co-hosts.
Red Cards Galore
South Africa's task was made all the more challenging when Yaya Sithole was shown a red card early in the second half. That was the first dismissal in an opening game since 1994. Shortly after, VAR made its first meaningful intervention, advising the referee to send off Themba Zwane after an off-the-ball incident, though it looked soft on first glance. Even a red card for Cesar Montes, the third of the match, in stoppage time couldn't dampen the Mexican energy.
Star-Studded Atmosphere
The cameras panned to Canelo Alvarez, the 35-year-old who became the first boxer in history to become the undisputed super middleweight champion, underlining the collective support behind the hosts. The Mexican fans made for a unique atmosphere at the Estadio Azteca.
A performer at the opening ceremony announced 'Bienvenida a México. Welcome to Mexico' to start the tournament. 'Mexico receives you with smiles from our heart. We are a nation of diversity, heritage and pride. Football carries the same heartbeat, uniting generations. The trophy is not defined by one player or nation but by all.'
The first of several opening ceremonies began the World Cup with Shakira joined on stage by Burna Boy. The Colombian star delivered the official World Cup song, 'Dai Dai.' The performers wore indigenous clothing, while the majority of the stadium was filled with fans dressed in green, the Mexican colours.
