The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off with two entertaining Group A matches as Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in Mexico City, while South Korea rallied from behind to beat Czechia 2-1 in Guadalajara. Both victories could prove crucial in what already looks like one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.
Mexico vs South Africa: El Tri Deliver in Front of Home Crowd
Mexico entered the tournament under immense pressure as co-hosts, but Javier Aguirre’s squad handled the occasion brilliantly.
The breakthrough came early when Julián Quiñones found the back of the net in the eighth minute, sending the Estadio Azteca into celebration mode. Mexico controlled possession throughout much of the contest and never allowed South Africa to settle into a rhythm.
Raúl Jiménez put the match beyond doubt in the 66th minute with his first-ever World Cup goal, a special moment for the veteran striker appearing in his fourth World Cup tournament.
The game’s turning point came shortly after halftime when South Africa’s Sithole received a straight red card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. South Africa eventually finished the match with nine men after a second red card, making an already difficult challenge nearly impossible.
Player of the Match: Julián Quiñones
His early goal set the tone, and his constant movement caused problems for South Africa’s back line all afternoon.
Czechia vs South Korea: Hwang In-beom Sparks Stunning Comeback
The second match of the day delivered even more drama.
After a scoreless first half, Czechia captain Ladislav Krejčí opened the scoring with a powerful header in the 59th minute and looked set to give his nation a massive opening victory.
South Korea had other plans.
Just eight minutes later, Hwang In-beom produced a brilliant equalizer after weaving through defenders before finishing calmly. The midfielder wasn’t done there. In the 80th minute, he delivered the assist for Oh Hyeon-gyu’s winner, completing a memorable comeback for the Koreans.
Led by Son Heung-min and a midfield that controlled large stretches of the game, South Korea looked composed even after falling behind. Their response showed why many analysts view them as serious contenders to advance from Group A.
Player of the Match: Hwang In-beom
One goal, one assist, and complete control of the midfield. He was the driving force behind South Korea’s comeback victory.
Final Thoughts
After one day of action, Mexico and South Korea sit atop Group A with three points each. Their upcoming showdown could determine who finishes first in the group, while Czechia and South Africa now face must-win situations heading into their next matches.