Mexico's Julian Quinones celebrates after scoring in the World Cup opener at the Azteca Stadium, now renamed Mexico City Stadium for the tournament. The match ended 2-0 against South Africa, with Quinones and Raúl Jiménez finding the net. The stadium, steeped in history from the 1970 and 1986 World Cups, retained its ghostly presence despite the name change and high ticket prices.
Match Highlights
South Africa's Yaya Sithole received a red card in the second half for a defensive blunder, joining two other players sent off by Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio. Mexican fans booed their team for not scoring more against a struggling South African side, leaving pundits Quinton Fortune, Aaron Mokoena, and Benni McCarthy speechless. South Africa's coach Hugo Broos claimed Mexico was desperate, but the result spoke otherwise.
Second Match: South Korea vs Czechia
In Guadalajara, South Korea came from behind to beat Czechia 2-1. Czechia's Ladislav Krejci scored first from a long throw by Vladimir Coufal, but goals from Hwang In-beom and Oh Hyeon-gyu secured the win. The official attendance was 44,985, but TV showed empty seats, suggesting fan discontent.
Other News
Jude Bellingham admitted England lacked vibes at the Euros. The Palestinian FA head Jibril Rajoub cannot travel to the US due to visa issues. Japan captain Wataru Endo retired from international football due to injury. Australia coach Tony Popovic extended his contract. Thibaut Courtois may retire from Belgium after the World Cup. Kenny Jackett, former Watford and Wales player, died at 64.
The Republic of Ireland's Nations League game against Israel will be at a neutral venue behind closed doors. Beth Mead joined Manchester City from Arsenal.
