Mexico Opens World Cup 2026 Against South Africa in Group A Clash

The much-anticipated 2026 World Cup kicks off tonight with hosts Mexico facing South Africa in their opening match of Group A at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

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This inaugural match marks the beginning of an expanded tournament featuring 48 teams, a significant change from previous editions. The matchup also serves as a throwback to the 2010 World Cup, where Mexico and South Africa played to a memorable 1-1 draw in Johannesburg.

Predicted Outcome: Mexico 2, South Africa 1

Mexico enters this match with a strong defensive record, having kept six clean sheets in their last eight international fixtures. Meanwhile, South Africa has shown offensive prowess, scoring in nine of their last eleven matches leading up to the tournament. Notably, five of Bafana Bafana’s last six games have seen both teams finding the net.

Coach Hugo Broos is expected to adopt a counter-attacking strategy against the stronger Mexican side. However, navigating the intense atmosphere at Azteca Stadium could prove difficult for his players. With home-field advantage and greater squad depth, Mexico is likely to start their World Cup campaign on a positive note.

> Click here for our complete preview of Mexico vs. South Africa, including team news and potential lineups.

© Imago.

Additionally, on Thursday, both South Korea and the Czech Republic will kick off their Group A campaigns in Guadalajara. Each team aims to secure early points as they vie for a top-two finish that would guarantee advancement to the knockout stage.

Predicted Outcome: South Korea 1, Czech Republic 1

This encounter may be tightly contested, given the differing styles of play from both squads. While the Czechs are riding high on recent performances, avoiding defeat will be crucial for both teams on this opening day.

Neither team ranks high among favorites in Sports Mole’s World Cup betting guide, making a draw a valuable outcome as they strive for progression into the knockout rounds.

> Click here for our full preview of South Korea vs. Czech Republic, including team news and potential lineups.