Mexico claimed a commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament's opening match at the Azteca stadium on Wednesday.
Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez scored in each half to seal the win. The performance capped off a vibrant opening ceremony featuring Shakira and Nigeria's Burna Boy.
It's a historic moment for the host nation. Mexico has never won an opening match in World Cup history before now.
The Azteca has become a fortress for El Tricolor. They've now extended their home unbeaten run to eight matches, including six victories.
Chaos dominated the contest from start to finish. Three red cards were shown—a first for any World Cup opening match.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino watched from the stands as Mexico dominated early. Ronwen Williams made a crucial save to deny Jimenez in the opening minutes.
South Africa's defense crumbled within nine minutes. A poor attempt at playing out from the back led to Quinones firing a low drive through Williams' legs.
According to tournament records, this was Mexico's quickest World Cup goal since 2006. Rafael Marquez had netted in the sixth minute that year.
The hosts should've widened their lead in the first half. A shot struck the post as Mexico pressed relentlessly.
South Africa imploded after halftime with two dismissals. Yaya Sithole received a straight red on 49 minutes for fouling Brian Gutierrez.
Jimenez capitalized on the numerical advantage with a back-post header. Roberto Alvarado's cross found him perfectly for 2-0.
The 35-year-old striker marked a significant milestone. He scored his first World Cup goal in his fourth tournament appearance.
Jimenez also joined an exclusive club. He's now Mexico's joint-second all-time goalscorer with 46 goals.
Themba Zwane received Mexico's second dismissal in the 84th minute. The red cards kept coming as Cesar Montes saw red for the hosts.
Three expulsions in one opening match is unprecedented at this level. The last World Cup match with three reds happened 20 years ago.
Mexico tops Group A with three points. South Africa sits bottom of the standings with nothing on the board.
