The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in spectacular fashion as co-hosts Mexico face South Africa at the legendary Estadio Azteca. An electric crowd of over 80,000 is expected to create a deafening atmosphere in the thin air of Mexico City.

Mexico – The Hosts’ Ambition

After a poor group-stage exit in Qatar 2022, El Tri are highly motivated under manager Javier Aguirre. Mexico will look to use home advantage and altitude to dominate. Key players include Raúl Jiménez up front, supported by the pacey Julián Quiñones and Roberto Alvarado. The midfield is anchored by Erik Lira and Brian Gutiérrez, while the defence remains solid with César Montes and Johan Vásquez.

South Africa – Bafana Bafana’s Resolve

South Africa arrive confident after topping their CAF qualifying group. Hugo Broos’ side favour a disciplined, counter-attacking approach. Captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams provides stability, Teboho Mokoena controls the midfield, and in-form striker Lyle Foster leads the attacking threat alongside Oswin Appollis.

History Note: This fixture is a reverse of the 2010 World Cup opener, when South Africa drew 1-1 with Mexico in Johannesburg.

Mexico are expected to control possession and press high, while South Africa will sit deep, defend resolutely, and look to exploit transitions and set-pieces.

Mexico vs South Africa Predicted Lineups

Mexico (4-3-3): Rangel, Gallardo, Vásquez, Montes, Reyes, Gutiérrez, Lira, Fidalgo, Quiñones, Alvarado, Jiménez

South Africa (4-3-3): Williams, Mudau, Okon, Mbokazi, Modiba, Mokoena, Sithole, Mbatha, Moremi, Foster, Appollis