The Mexican goals were scored by Julián Quiñones, in the 9th minute, and Raúl Jiménez, in the 67th minute. Quiñones’ goal became the first of the tournament.
Mexico took an early lead after a turnover by Siphephelo Sithole in the South African start. Quiñones took advantage of the action to open the scoring.
In the second half, Jiménez increased the difference with a shot inside the area that ensured the victory of the team led by Javier Aguirre.
The match was also marked by several disciplinary decisions that required VAR review. Brazilian referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio showed three direct red cards during the match.
The first expulsion occurred at minute 49. Siphephelo “Yaya” Sithole He was penalized for a foul on Brian Gutiérrez when he was advancing toward the goal. After reviewing the play on the monitor, the referee showed the direct red card.
The second expulsion occurred at minute 84 and fell to the South African captain Themba Zwane. The VAR alerted the referee for an attack on Roberto Alvarado that occurred far from the ball. After reviewing the images, Sampaio decided to expel the player.
With that decision, South Africa was left with nine players on the field.
The third red card was shown in added time, at minute 90+2. The Mexican defender Cesar Montes He was sent off for a foul on an opponent near the area.
Mexico finished the match with ten players and South Africa with nine. The referee’s performance generated reactions due to the number of expulsions registered in the opening match of the tournament.
With this result, Mexico added its first three points in Group A. South Africa will have to face its next matches with the disciplinary consequences derived from the expulsions suffered in the debut.