First unlucky hero of the 2026 World Cup, Yaya Sithole precipitates South Africa's downfall in opening match

Yaya Sithole made a costly error by losing the ball to Julián Quiñones, who opened the scoring for Mexico in the 8th minute. In the second half, Sithole was sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity, leaving South Africa with ten men. Themba Zwane also received a late red card. Mexico won 2-0 at the Azteca Stadium.