Mexico opened their World Cup campaign with a 2–0 victory over nine-man South Africa on Thursday at the Estadio Azteca, as the expanded tournament began in Mexico City.
South Africa ended the match with nine players after Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane were both sent off. Quinones put the hosts ahead in the ninth minute, driving a low effort through the legs of South Africa captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
The home crowd of 80,824 at the Azteca responded with loud celebrations in the early stages of the match. South Africa coach Hugo Broos had earlier cautioned his side regarding the intensity of the atmosphere inside the stadium.
Sithole was dismissed in the 49th minute after a foul on Brian Gutierrez, who was through on goal. Mexico extended their lead in the 67th minute when Raul Jimenez headed in from a cross by Roberto Alvarado.
Zwane was shown a red card in the 84th minute following a VAR review for an incident involving Alvarado. Late in the match, Mexican defender Cesar Montes was also sent off after a challenge on Khulisa Mudau at the edge of the penalty area.
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