Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre believes his side left goals on the pitch in their 2-0 victory over South Africa in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener on Thursday, claiming the margin could have stretched to 3-0.

The match, which carried the distinction of being the tournament's first fixture, ended with three red cards across both sides — a dramatic backdrop to Mexico's comfortable triumph.

Quinones opens the scoring

Julián Quiñones had the honour of scoring the first goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, giving Mexico a deserved lead. He came close to adding a second before the interval, but the half-time scoreline stayed at 1-0.

Red cards and a second goal

After the break, South Africa's Yaya Sithole was dismissed for fouling Brian Gutiérrez, reducing the hosts — playing on home soil at the tournament co-hosted across North America — to ten men. Mexico capitalised almost immediately, with Raul Jimenez powering home a brilliant diving header to double the lead.

South Africa's evening deteriorated further when Themba Zwane received a red card for violent conduct, leaving them with nine men. Mexico were not without fault — defender Cesar Montes was also sent off in stoppage time for a reckless challenge, finishing the match with ten men of their own.

Aguirre calls for improvement despite win

Despite the convincing result, Aguirre was measured in his assessment, acknowledging both the positives and the areas that need work.