2026 W/Cup: It Could Easily Have Been 3-0 — Mexico Coach Reacts To Win Against South Africa

Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has said his side could have beaten South Africa by as high as 3-0, in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener on Thursday.

Mexico got the 2026 World Cup underway by comfortably beating South Africa 2-0, in a match that saw three players sent off.

Julian Quinones scored the opening goal of the tournament and almost added a second before half-time.

South Africa’s Yaya Sithole was sent off after the break for bringing down Brian Gutiérrez, with Mexico’s striker Raul Jimenez doubling the lead with a brilliant diving header.

Things went from bad to worse for South Africa when Themba Zwane was dismissed for violent conduct.

But he wasn’t the last player to go, with Mexican defender Cesar Montes receiving the same punishment for a clumsy challenge in stoppage time.

Also Read: 2026 World Cup: Broos Blames South Africa’s Poor Tactical Composure For Loss Against Mexico

Reacting to the opening day win Aguirre, however, admitted that his team must improve.

“It could easily have been 3-0. We were superior in the first half but it got difficult when we didn’t find the second goal.

“It was a good performance but we can also improve.”

The defeat against Mexico means South Africa are winless in all their four World Cup opening matches.

Hugo Broos’ side must now bounce back in their second game of the tournament against Czech Republic.