Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening match of the expanded 48-team World Cup, hosted jointly by multiple nations including Mexico. The game, played at the Azteca Stadium in front of over 80,000 fans, saw Mexico take an early lead with a goal from Julián Quiñones in the 9th minute, followed by a second from Raúl Jiménez in the 67th. South Africa’s chances were hampered by two red cards, one early in the second half and another late in the match, leaving them with nine players. The opening ceremony featured performances by Shakira and Burna Boy, performing their song "Dai Dai," alongside local artists celebrating Mexican culture. Grammy-winning South African singer Tyler performed the South African national anthem, while Alejandro Fernández sang the Mexican national anthem. This marks the first time the World Cup has been co-hosted across three countries.