The FIFA World Cup 2026 finally gets underway on Wednesday (local time), with co-hosts Mexico taking on South Africa in the opening match at the Mexico City Stadium.
The Group A encounter marks the beginning of the biggest World Cup in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Backed by a passionate home crowd, Mexico will be eager to make a winning start to their campaign.
The fixture brings back memories of the 2010 World Cup opener in South Africa, when Siphiwe Tshabalala’s stunning goal gave the hosts the lead before Rafael Marquez salvaged a 1-1 draw for Mexico. Marquez is once again part of the Mexican setup, this time as assistant coach to Javier Aguirre.
Mexico head into the contest as favourites and will look to use home advantage to gain early momentum. Aguirre said the opportunity to play a World Cup on home soil is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“I haven’t experienced a greater thrill in 50 years of football than playing in a World Cup at home. I’ve lived through a lot, but this is unforgettable,” Aguirre said ahead of the match.
South Africa, who qualified after topping their African qualifying group, will be aiming to spring a surprise. Head coach Hugo Broos acknowledged the challenge posed by the hosts but insisted his team is prepared for the occasion.
“Mexico are the strongest team in the group, so tomorrow will be a very tough game for us. I can assure you that my team is ready, and we’ll fight for every metre and every ball for the full 90 minutes,” Broos said.
Midfielder Teboho Mokoena said the team was excited about the opportunity to represent the nation on football’s biggest stage.
“Expectations are very high, and it’s going to be an amazing game with an amazing atmosphere. We know how much it means to everyone back home,” Mokoena said.
South Africa have been boosted by the return of left-back Aubrey Modiba, who is expected to be available after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Probable XIs:
Mexico: Rangel; Reyes, Montes, Vasquez, Gallardo; Lira, Gutierrez, Fidalgo; Alvarado, Jimenez, Quinones.
South Africa: Williams; Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba; Mokoena, Sithole, Mbatha; Moremi, Foster, Appollis.
With a packed stadium and millions watching around the world, the curtain is set to rise on a month-long football spectacle as Mexico and South Africa open the World Cup in Mexico City.
ANI
