World Cup 2026 Mexico vs South Africa Cesar Montes Red Card — Mexican players celebrate their opening goal as a packed Azteca crowd roars with joy during the fiery 2026 World Cup opener against South Africa.

Cesar Montes Red Card Clouds Mexico’s World Cup Win

Cesar Montes Red Card Caps a Wild World Cup Opener for Mexico

By Desk Assistant On Jun 12, 2026

Mexico & South Africa – (Web Desk) – Mexico kicked off the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa, but the Cesar Montes red card in the dying minutes left a sour note on what should have been a pure celebration for the home fans at the Azteca stadium.

Julian Quinones broke the deadlock early after stealing the ball and slotting a clean finish past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. It was a well-deserved lead for Mexico, who controlled the game from the very first whistle.

South Africa struggled to get a foothold in the match. Things got worse for them in the second half when Sphephelo Sithole was sent off for a clumsy tackle on a Mexican attacker. The dismissal made a tough afternoon almost impossible for the visitors.

Raul Jimenez then put the game to bed with a powerful header from a sharp cross by Roberto Alvarado. It was his first-ever World Cup goal — a moment he will not forget in a hurry.

But the drama was not over. Themba Zwane received a second red card after a VAR review, and moments later Mexico’s own Cesar Montes was also dismissed for denying a clear goalscoring chance. Three red cards in one game — a first in World Cup opening match history.

Despite the chaos, Mexico’s fans went home happy. A winning start in Group A, which also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic, sets El Tri up nicely for the road ahead.