Raúl Jiménez sealed Mexico's win against nine-man South Africa in the World Cup opener, doubling the lead with a header in the second half. The match, held at the iconic Azteca Stadium, saw Mexico dominate despite a chaotic buildup marred by organizational issues and geopolitical tensions.
A Rocky Start for the Hosts
Sphephelo Sithole was caught in possession nine minutes into the game, allowing Julián Quiñones to run on and lash the ball through Ronwen Williams's legs. This early goal set the tone, but the match was far from smooth. Concerns over aggression from the major co-host faded as football took center stage, but broader issues persisted.
Gianni Infantino opted to run the tournament without a local organizing committee, contributing to shambolic organization at the Azteca—chaotic traffic, non-existent signage, absence of wifi, and general lack of order. Mexican fans, however, remained unfazed by the disarray.
A Dominant but Anodyne Victory
Despite three red cards, the victory was anodyne. Mexico's manager, Javier Aguirre, acknowledged the team's superiority but noted the scoreline did not reflect it. "We were superior but the score did not reflect that," he said. "Things got a little complicated but we relaxed and we did start with a win. Can we make it better? Of course."
The opening ceremony's voiceover proclaimed that "football unites us all," though this sentiment rang hollow for those unable to afford exorbitant ticket prices. The football family, increasingly small and well-heeled, was on full display.
Atmosphere and History at the Azteca
The stadium, renovated but retaining its historic character, evoked memories of past glories: Pelé's setup for Carlos Alberto, Manuel Negrete's bicycle kick, and Diego Maradona's iconic dribble against England. The color and noise were undeniable. Outside, mariachi bands, people in animal masks, and a jazz sextet in lilac attire created a festive atmosphere. The streets were packed since dawn, with queues for beer stretching 50 yards from a nearby 7-Eleven.
The Mexico team's emergence for warm-ups drew roars and whistles. Despite skepticism in the buildup, excitement peaked an hour before kick-off, culminating in a blizzard of cardboard sombreros. Aguirre admitted, "When we looked at the stadium, it was incredible. We got a little bit of stage fright."
Second Half Drama
Sithole's nightmare continued as he was sent off four minutes into the second half for bundling over Brian Gutiérrez. Quiñones had hit the post late in the first half, but the home crowd booed until Raúl Jiménez arrived unmarked at the back post to head home Roberto Alvarado's cross. South Africa's coach, Hugo Broos, said his side "played a good game" but accepted Mexico was "at a different level."
As South Africa lost hope, substitute Themba Zwane was sent off with six minutes remaining for clipping Alvarado in the face. The tournament equaled the total of three red cards from the entire Qatar World Cup in its first game, as César Montes was harshly sent off for a last-man foul on Khuliso Mudau.
Looking Ahead
Quiñones acknowledged costly mistakes: "Being sent off is something you can avoid." Mexico will likely feel they should have won more comfortably, but the hosts have a win. Broader problems, however, remain far from resolved.
