World Cup 2026: Mexico vs South Africa – Where and how to watch

Mexico take on South Africa tonight at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City as the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially gets underway.

The match opens the first-ever 48-team World Cup, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada. For Mexico, it is a historic home start filled with expectation and pressure, while South Africa return to the global stage for the first time since their memorable hosting in 2010.

Both sides are drawn in Group A alongside South Korea and Czechia, meaning a strong start in this opening fixture could prove crucial in the race for qualification.

Match Details

• Fixture: Mexico vs South Africa
• Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026, Group A
• Venue: Estadio Azteca / Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City
• Date: Thursday, June 11
• Kick-off: 8:00 p.m. Morocco time
• How to watch: beIN Sports, FOX Sports, ITV1, SuperSport

Mexico Team News

Mexico begin their World Cup campaign under significant pressure, despite the advantage of playing at home. The expectations from fans are enormous, and Javier Aguirre’s side will be expected to deliver a strong opening performance in a tightly contested group.

Mexico are widely seen as favourites in this fixture due to their home support, tournament experience, and recent form, but opening matches at the World Cup often bring unexpected challenges.

Mexico had a number of fitness concerns in the buildup, with César Montes, Edson Álvarez, Luis Chávez, and Alexis Vega all dealing with issues. However, several of them featured in the final warm-up matches, which suggests the squad will still be close to full strength.

Mexico come into the opener in strong shape, unbeaten in their last eight matches. A convincing 5–1 win over Serbia in their final warm-up game boosted confidence and provided momentum heading into the tournament.

Santiago Giménez is expected to lead the attack and provide the main goal threat. Edson Álvarez brings leadership and physical presence in midfield, while Guillermo Ochoa adds invaluable World Cup experience in goal.

Mexico are expected to start aggressively, feeding off the energy of the home crowd and pushing forward through the wings. Scoring early will be crucial to settling nerves and controlling the tempo of the match.

South Africa Team News

South Africa enter the tournament as underdogs, but they are not expected to simply make up the numbers. Hugo Broos’ side secured qualification through a difficult campaign and will aim to channel the spirit of their 2010 World Cup, where they famously drew 1–1 against Mexico in the opening match.

Aubrey Modiba had been a concern due to injury, but he has returned to training and is expected to be available for selection.

South Africa’s form leading into the tournament has been inconsistent. While they have struggled to convert possession into goals, they remain well-organised defensively and are difficult to break down.

Teboho Mokoena will be key in controlling midfield battles, while Percy Tau offers creativity, pace, and the ability to unlock defences in transition.