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World Cup LIVE blog: FULL-TIME: Mexico defeat South Africa 2-0 in opening game

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Mexico's Julian Quinones celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the 2026 World Cup Group A match vs South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026. [Rodrigo OROPEZA / AFP]

Mexico kicked off the 2026 FIFA World Cup in style, defeating South Africa 2-0 at a packed Estadio Azteca to register their first-ever victory in a World Cup opening match.

Playing before more than 80,000 passionate supporters in Mexico City, the co-hosts produced a composed performance to launch their campaign on a winning note while also making history at one of football's most iconic venues.

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