Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has criticised the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the contest between Mexico and South Africa as tactically poor despite the hosts’ 2-0 victory at the Azteca Stadium.
Mexico began their campaign with goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez to secure all three points, but the match was overshadowed by a chaotic finish that produced three red cards.
South Africa’s Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane were both sent off, while Mexico captain Cesar Montes also received a late red card after committing a professional foul.
Speaking as a television pundit after the match, Klopp questioned the tactical discipline shown by both teams, particularly during the closing stages.
Klopp said: “This situation pretty much sums up the whole match. Tactically, that was just poor! “Simply not good from both teams. 11 against 9 and then you run into a counter-attack. Why? Because the backline was sitting too deep. “That was a general issue throughout the entire game.
South Africa didn’t exploit it at all.” The former Liverpool boss was not alone in his assessment, with other analysts also expressing disappointment over the quality of the tournament opener.
Former Germany international Christoph Kramer said he expected a more intense and competitive contest.
Kramer said: “You sort of get the feeling that it’s so highly charged, and I also expected that kind of intensity and for the spaces to open up. “But I thought it would lead to real battles on the pitch, and that wasn’t really the case. “It’s great that they are playing there, but it felt more like a charity match.”
Veteran German coach Christian Streich also criticised South Africa’s display, saying he expected more organisation and determination from the African side.
Streich said: “I was disappointed with South Africa because I thought they would have better organisation and show more fight.”
Despite the criticism, Mexico opened their World Cup campaign with a victory and a clean sheet, while South Africa were left to reflect on a difficult evening that ended with two players dismissed and questions over their overall performance.
