The FIFA World Cup 2026 got off to a thrilling start on Thursday as Mexico and South Korea claimed important victories on an action-packed opening day that delivered goals, dramatic comebacks, red cards, and unforgettable memories for fans around the world.
The tournament began in spectacular fashion at a packed Estadio Azteca, where more than 80,000 supporters created a sea of color and noise before co-hosts Mexico took the field against South Africa.
Following a dazzling opening ceremony featuring performances from global music stars Shakira and Burna Boy, the football quickly matched the excitement.
Mexico wasted little time making history. In the ninth minute, Julián Quiñones scored the first goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after capitalizing on a South African mistake and calmly firing the ball through goalkeeper Ronwen Williams' legs.
The strike sent the stadium into celebration and provided one of the tournament's first iconic moments.
Backed by a passionate home crowd, El Tri controlled the match from start to finish. Veteran striker Raúl Jiménez added a second goal in the 67th minute, heading home a perfectly delivered cross to secure a comfortable 2-0 victory.
The result gave Mexico the perfect start to its World Cup campaign and strengthened hopes of a deep run in front of its home supporters.
The opening match also produced plenty of drama.
South Africa finished with nine men after two players were shown red cards, while Mexico's César Montes was also sent off in stoppage time.
The three red cards ensured that the first game of the tournament would be remembered for its intensity as much as its football.
Later in Guadalajara, South Korea and Czechia delivered one of the most entertaining contests of the opening day.
In a match many observers viewed as crucial in the battle for qualification from Group A, South Korea showed resilience and character to earn a 2-1 comeback victory.
For much of the evening, neither side was able to create clear opportunities. Czechia finally broke the deadlock in the 59th minute when defender Ladislav Krejčí powered home a header from a set piece, sparking celebrations among fans witnessing the country's first World Cup appearance in two decades.
Rather than losing confidence, South Korea responded with urgency and determination. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when Hwang In-Beom found the equalizer, igniting the Korean supporters inside the stadium.
The goal transformed the match and shifted momentum firmly in South Korea's favor.
The decisive moment arrived when Oh Hyeon-Gyu produced a superb finish to complete the comeback and secure all three points.
Although captain Son Heung-min was unable to get on the scoresheet despite several attempts, his leadership and attacking presence played a key role in South Korea's energetic performance.
As the final whistles blew in Mexico City and Guadalajara, Day One of the FIFA World Cup 2026 had already produced memories that will remain with fans throughout the tournament.
Quiñones' historic opening goal, Jiménez's emotional World Cup strike, South Korea's spirited comeback, and the electric atmosphere created by thousands of supporters all served as reminders of why the World Cup remains football's greatest stage.
With Mexico and South Korea opening their campaigns with victories, both nations have taken an early step toward the knockout rounds.
More importantly, they helped launch the biggest World Cup in history with a day full of passion, excitement, and moments that captured the imagination of football fans across the globe.
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