The 2026 FIFA World Cup, organised by the FIFA World Cup, begins today with a Group A fixture reportedly featuring co-host Mexico against South Africa at 1 p.m. local time in Mexico City.
The expanded tournament features 48 teams and 104 matches across co-host nations Mexico, the United States and Canada, marking the largest edition in the competition’s history.
South Africa arrive as one of Africa’s standout qualifiers under head coach Hugo Broos, with the squad leaning on momentum from strong qualification performances. Their campaign has been backed by widespread domestic support, including coordinated messages from top clubs such as Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, both highlighting national unity around the team.
Mexico enter the opener with home advantage at altitude in the Estadio Azteca, where conditions often pose a challenge for visiting sides. The hosts are expected to rely on forward Santiago Giménez among their attacking options as they aim to start strongly in front of home supporters.
South Africa, nicknamed Bafana Bafana, are targeting a memorable return to World Cup prominence, recalling their 2010 tournament legacy on home soil, while Mexico look to capitalise on familiarity with conditions and strong local backing.
