Jiménez scores his first World Cup goal as Mexico beat South Africa 2–0

Jiménez gets his World Cup goal, Mexico roll 2–0

Raúl Jiménez waited four World Cups for this. He scored in the opener against South Africa, a 2–0 win that got the co-hosts off the mark without drama (1). Your team handled the night. No panic, no late scramble. Just three points on the board and the tournament properly underway.

South Korea on Thursday, and a real chance to take control

The second group match is Thursday night against South Korea (1). Win it, and Mexico are in a commanding position with the home crowd behind them. The feelgood factor is one result away.

Aguirre has options up top, and he knows it

Javier Aguirre talked up his attacking depth ahead of the South Korea match. Hormiga González is in form, and the manager made it plain: four forwards, four different profiles, all available (2). No hints on the lineup, but the bench is not a weakness right now.

Brian Gutiérrez, the 'chicano pride' who landed on his feet

Aguirre called Brian Gutiérrez the "orgullo chicano," and the phrase stuck (3). Gutiérrez was born in the US and played for their youth teams. Now he is shining for Mexico. Aguirre put it simply: "Ha caído de pie," meaning he has landed on his feet (3). Another weapon in the squad.

Fan-reaktioner

Mexico fans are already looking past South Africa. The South Korea coach called a drone sighting near their training session "unfortunate," and supporters online are treating it as a sign of nerves in the opposition camp. The mood is confident heading into Thursday. See the thread here.