Mexico started its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a strong 2-0 win over South Africa in Mexico City. While veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa did not play, he still had plenty of support from the stands. The 40-year-old goalkeeper was named in Mexico's World Cup squad for the sixth time in his career. However, head coach Javier Aguirre selected Raul Rangel to start the opening match instead.
On the field, Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez scored the goals that helped Mexico secure all three points in front of their home fans. Away from the action, Ochoa's wife, Karla Mora, was among those cheering for the team. Wearing Mexico colors, she proudly supported her husband and the national side during an important opening-night victory. The win gave Mexico a positive start, but there was plenty more happening throughout the match than just the two goals.
Karla Mora backs Guillermo Ochoa from the stands during Mexico victory
Even though Guillermo Ochoa spent the game on the bench, Karla Mora made sure her support was visible. Before kickoff, she shared a photo of herself alongside Mexican fashion stylist Raul Alvarez while wearing the national team shirt. She later watched from the stands as Mexico controlled the match and celebrated a comfortable win. The result was another memorable moment for a player who has been part of Mexico's World Cup squads since 2006.
Ochoa remains one of the most recognizable figures in Mexican football. Across his international career, he has earned 152 appearances for his country and has represented Mexico on the sport's biggest stage for nearly two decades.
Raul Jimenez scores as Mexico and South Africa see three red cards
The match became increasingly dramatic after halftime. South Africa was reduced to ten players when Yaya Sithole received a red card for a last-man challenge on Brian Gutierrez just three minutes into the second half. Things got worse for the visitors later when Thembe Zwane was sent off following a VAR review for violent conduct. Mexico also finished with ten men after Cesar Montes received a red card for a foul on Khuliso Mudau.
For Ochoa, the evening ended with another positive memory. The goalkeeper and Karla Mora married in Ibiza, Spain, in 2017 and have three children together: Lucciana, Guillermo, and Karla. While he did not step onto the field, he watched Mexico begin its World Cup journey with an important victory.
