Ronaldinho Celebrates Mexico's Historic Win at FIFA World Cup 2026 Opener

Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho expressed his joy at the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener, where Mexico triumphed over South Africa 2-0. The match was marked by intense physicality and three red cards, making it a historic event. Ronaldinho celebrated the vibrant atmosphere at Estadio Azteca and shared his excitement for the tournament on social media. This victory ended Mexico's winless streak in World Cup openers, marking a significant moment in their football history. The next challenge for Mexico is against South Korea on June 19.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 12, 2026, 06:37 IST

Ronaldinho's Joyful Return to Mexico

Mexico City, June 12: Renowned Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho attended the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, where Mexico faced South Africa. He expressed his delight at reconnecting with fellow legends and friends at the Estadio Azteca, emphasizing his love for Mexico.

In a historic moment, Mexico ended their winless streak in World Cup openers with a decisive 2-0 victory over South Africa. The match was marked by intense physical play, resulting in three red cards being issued. Every touch by the Mexican team was met with cheers, while the South African players faced a chorus of boos.

On social media, Ronaldinho, who won the FIFA World Cup in 2002, shared his excitement, stating, "This cup is gonna be way too awesome." He expressed his happiness about returning to Mexico for another World Cup, highlighting the surreal energy and vibrant atmosphere created by the fans.

Q felicidade voltar ao México na abertura de mais uma @FIFAWorldCup!!!! Mt feliz em rever todos os amigos e lendas do esporte… Energia surreal e uma festa linda da torcida!!!! Tds sabem o carinho que tenho por este país e é sempre uma alegria enorme estar aq… Bora que essa copa… pic.twitter.com/Euheua0eYU

— Ronaldinho (@10Ronaldinho) June 11, 2026

The match was notable for its physicality, with two red cards issued to South Africa and one to Mexico, marking the highest number of red cards in a World Cup opener, according to ESPN. This was the first instance of a team receiving two red cards in a World Cup match since the 2006 tournament in Germany.

With this victory, Mexico has now achieved 22 consecutive wins against African teams, their last defeat occurring in the 2005 Gold Cup. The match also marked the 20th World Cup event held at the iconic Azteca Stadium, the most of any venue in World Cup history, and Mexico remains unbeaten there.

After a seven-match winless streak in World Cup openers, which included five losses and two draws, this is the first time Mexico has begun a World Cup campaign with a full set of points.

Julian Quinones scored the opening goal in the ninth minute, making it the second-quickest goal in World Cup history since Philipp Lahm's goal for Germany in 2006. Raul Jimenez later added a second goal, tying him with Jared Borgetti as Mexico's second-highest goal-scorer, just six goals behind Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez.

Additionally, Gilberto Mora made his debut as a substitute in the second half, becoming the youngest player to represent Mexico in World Cup history at 17 years and 240 days old, and the sixth-youngest overall in the tournament's history.

Mexico's next match is scheduled against South Korea on June 19.