Mexico vs South Africa to Open FIFA World Cup 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will officially begin on June 11 with co-hosts Mexico taking on South Africa in the opening match at the iconic Mexico City Stadium.

The Group A clash will mark the start of the biggest World Cup in football history, featuring 48 teams and a total of 104 matches across North America.

Interestingly, the fixture mirrors the opening game of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, where both nations also faced each other. On that occasion, Siphiwe Tshabalala scored a memorable opener before Rafael Marquez equalised for Mexico in a 1-1 draw.

Mexico will now hope to make a strong start in front of their home supporters as they aim to progress deep into the tournament. Javier Aguirre’s side enters the competition carrying huge expectations as one of the host nations.

South Africa secured qualification for the 2026 tournament after finishing top of Group C in the CAF qualifiers. Managed by Hugo Broos, Bafana Bafana will participate in their fourth FIFA World Cup and will look to create another historic moment on football’s biggest stage.

The legendary Mexico City Stadium will once again become a major World Cup venue. The historic arena previously hosted the 1970 and 1986 FIFA World Cup finals and becomes the first stadium ever to host matches in three separate World Cups.

Five matches of the 2026 tournament will be played at the venue, including Mexico’s opening two group-stage fixtures and knockout round games.

Kick-off is scheduled for 13:00 local time in Mexico City and 21:00 in Pretoria.