Algerian Radio
Mexico defeated South Africa 2–0 on Thursday evening in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup (June 11 – July 19). The encounter, played at the iconic Estadio Azteca before 80,000 spectators, saw three red cards brandished by Brazilian referee Bráulio Machado.
The hosts took the lead early through Quiñones (9’), while South Africa struggled to create clear chances in this Group A opener, which also features South Korea and the Czech Republic.
The task grew even harder for Bafana Bafana after defender Sithole was sent off (50’). Mexico capitalised when Jiménez doubled the advantage (67’). A second South African red card followed after a rash challenge by substitute Zwane (84’), before Mexican defender Montes was also dismissed in stoppage time (90+2’).
The Road Ahead for Algeria
Algeria’s World Cup journey begins with a heavyweight clash against defending champions Argentina on Wednesday, June 17, at 2:00 AM Algerian time.
Group J includes Argentina, Algeria, Jordan and Austria. Riyad Mahrez and his teammates will contest their group‑stage matches between Kansas City and the San Francisco Bay Area.
After facing the “Tango Dancers”, Algeria meets Jordan on June 23 (5:00 AM) – a historic first World Cup encounter between the two brotherly nations that carries high stakes for group qualification.
Algeria’s final group match is a long‑awaited rematch against Austria on June 28 (4:00 AM) in Kansas City. It is only the second meeting between the two sides since the infamous 21 June 1982 clash, which ended 2–0 to Austria amid the “Disgrace of Gijón”, when Austria and Germany colluded to eliminate the Algerians. This summer’s match carries a deep sense of redemption, 43 years after that controversial night at El Molinón.
