Mexico Lead 1-0 at Half-Time: Quiñones Goal

In the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mexico ended the first half 1-0 up against South Africa at Estadio Banorte. The only goal of the match came in the ninth minute from Julián Quiñones. Meeting the ball through an assist from Erik Lira, Quiñones became the name who put the hosts ahead. This score turned the emotional intensity of the opening match in Mexico's favour.

The first half of the match generally took place under Mexico's pressure. The first half statistics clearly reflected the host team's superiority: Expected goals (xG) Mexico 0.57 to South Africa 0.06; possession 57% to 43%; total shots Mexico 10 to South Africa 2; big chance Mexico 1 to South Africa 0; touches in the opposition box Mexico 11 to South Africa 2. These figures revealed that Hugo Broos' team struggled to carry the pressure despite the defensive approach.

Yellow cards also marked the first half. In the 17th minute, South African midfielder Teboho Mokoena was shown a yellow card for tripping. Six minutes later, in the 23rd minute, Mexico's Brian Gutiérrez was also punished with a yellow card for tripping in the same way. In the first-half stoppage time, Mexico continued the offensive pressure. In the 45+4, Brian Gutiérrez sent the ball wide on the right with a shot after an accurate pass inside the penalty area. Just before, in the 45+3, Aubrey Modiba's only meaningful attack toward the Mexico goal was cut off by a quickly recovering defender's intervention.

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio is officiating the match. Estadio Banorte is hosting the opening match at full capacity with 87,523 people. In the second half, Javier Aguirre's team will take the field with the aim of protecting the advantage and widening the gap; Broos' team will aim to restore balance.

Image: us.marca.com