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The 2026 FIFA World Cup™ won its first goal and a breathtaking moment at the Azteca Stadium. Mexico opened the scoring through Quiñones in the 8th minute and led 1-0 against South Africa at half-time. The game remains intense, with the Mexicans dominating the actions and creating the best chances, especially a move that almost made history in the 41st minute.
The Mexican fans filled the legendary Azteca and cheered with every attack from the home team. Loud boos marked South Africa’s attempts, while the “olés” cheered Mexico’s passing exchanges. Referee Wilton Pereira Sampaio led the first stage firmly, applying cards and controlling tempers.
Main moments of the first half (minute by minute):
- 8′– Goal from Mexico! Quiñones took advantage of an error when the ball was released by South Africa, disarming Lira and finishing low to open the score. First goal of the 2026 World Cup!
- 16′– Yellow card for Mokoena (South Africa) after a foul on Fidalgo.
- 19′– Quiñones took a risk from outside the area and sent it close, touching the net from the outside.
- 22′– Yellow card for Gutiérrez (Mexico) for a foul on Mokoena.
- 34′– Gallardo reaches the baseline, crosses low and Williams makes a great save.
- 37′– Foster heads free but sends it wide in the first South African shot.
- 41′– On the beam! Quiñones finishes inside the area after a collective play, the ball explodes on the left post and almost increases the score for Mexico. Lance that made the entire Azteca hold its breath.
- 48′– Gutiérrez misses a clear chance after a pass from Quiñones, shooting poorly and wasting a great opportunity.
Mexico imposed superiority from the start, with strong pressure and volume of play. At 41 minutes, the most electrifying moment of the first half: Quiñones received the ball inside the area, adjusted his body and released a shot placed in the corner. The ball traveled with precision, touched the foot of goalkeeper Williams’ left post and went out. The Azteca exploded in a mix of frustration and admiration for what was almost a second Mexican goal. This move summed up the dominance of the home team, who pressed all the time but found the South African goalkeeper and the post in the way.
Quiñones was the big name in the initial stage. In addition to the historic goal in the 8th minute, the Mexican striker was present in almost all the dangerous plays. His speed and positioning created constant headaches for the South African defense. Raúl Jiménez also appeared well, demanding important saves from Williams, who was mainly responsible for keeping the score at 1-0.
Despite the pressure, South Africa showed defensive organization at times. Modiba and Foster tried to counterattack, but ran into the Mexican marking. The African team suffered from passing errors and little possession, which generated complaints and boos from the local fans. Until the 35th minute, Mexico had 6 shots compared to zero from South Africa, showing the absolute control of the home team.
At 45 minutes, the referee indicated 4 minutes of extra time, taking the first half until 49′. In the final minutes, Gallardo took a long shot, the ball was deflected and Tala Rangel saved without fear. Mexico continued to look to expand, but the post and good interventions from Williams prevented a bigger advantage before the break.
At halftime, the score remains Mexico 1 x 0 South Africa. The game continues and the second half promises strong emotions. Mexican fans expect the team to maintain the offensive rhythm and transform superiority into more goals, while South Africa needs to react urgently to avoid complications in its debut.
The match marks the opening of the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™. Azteca enjoyed an unforgettable atmosphere, with a pre-game protocol that included the presentation of the flags and the presence of Ronaldinho Gaúcho in the broadcast. The first goal of the tournament, scored by Quiñones, has already entered the history of Mexican football.
The crossbar strike in the 41st minute was the culmination of the Mexican pressure. After crossing and left in the area, Quiñones didn’t hesitate. The low and strong shot made the ball hit the post, making it clear how much Mexico deserved to extend the lead. This moment of almost a goal increased the energy in the stadium even more and showed that the home team came to dominate the confrontation. (long paragraph 1)
The South African defense, despite suffering, managed to hold on until the end of the first half. Williams was instrumental with at least three high-profile interventions. On the other side, the Mexican defense, with highlights such as Vásquez, warded off the few African threats. The balance between fast attack and solid defense has been Mexico’s keynote so far. (long paragraph 2)
Coaches from both teams are already planning adjustments for the second stage. Mexico must maintain intensity and explore spaces, while South Africa seeks to improve the ball output and create real danger. Minute-by-minute coverage continues in real time.
There are many minutes of football left and the game is still completely open. Follow all updates, live statistics and match developments directly onwww.mixvale.com. Azteca continues to pulsate and the second half promises to be even more vibrant.