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If Thursday, 11 June has been circled on your calendar since the start of the year, the day you’ve been anticipating has finally come.

The 2026 World Cup is officially underway, bringing all the excitement, spectacle, and drama that its three co-host nations promise across a mammoth schedule of 104 matches. It’s the biggest World Cup in history and the first to be hosted in three different countries, yet the tournament begins in a refreshingly classic way.

Mexico versus South Africa is a truly historic curtain-raiser. Sixteen years ago, the 2010 World Cup opened with a 1-1 draw between these same teams in Johannesburg — a match remembered for Siphiwe Tshabalala’s unforgettable goal for Bafana Bafana.

Opening games at major tournaments often tend to be tight, tense affairs, and Mexico vs South Africa could very well follow that pattern. However, the influence of the legendary Estadio Azteca should not be underestimated.

South Africa, guided by their soon-to-retire head coach Hugo Broos, won’t make things easy. His side rarely conceded multiple goals throughout 2025, though they have let in two goals on two separate occasions since the beginning of the year.

Bafana Bafana have no intention of serving as mere background to someone else’s celebration. Yet, with the iconic Azteca Stadium packed full of passionate home fans, Mexico are expected to start with determination and intensity.

Under the guidance of Javier Aguirre, now in his third spell as national coach, Mexico are looking to bounce back after their group stage exit four years ago. The team’s best World Cup performances came when they reached the quarter-finals in both 1970 and 1986 — coincidentally, both times the tournament was held on home soil. Supporters in Mexico City will be hoping that history can repeat itself.

Aguirre’s key player is veteran striker Raul Jimenez, aged 35. Entering the 2026 World Cup with 45 goals from 124 international appearances, he recently rejoined Wolverhampton Wanderers on a free transfer and has already seen a new manager take charge there.

The coach’s approach focuses on maintaining defensive discipline and structure while ensuring a steady supply of chances for Jimenez. With the Azteca’s electric atmosphere behind them, Mexico will aim to make a strong early statement.

Predicted score: Mexico 2-0 South Africa

Fans can watch Mexico vs South Africa in Group A of the 2026 World Cup for free, with full viewing information available in the official broadcast guide.

The match will be shown live on ITV in the United Kingdom, FOX in the United States, and SBS in Australia.

What’s your prediction for Mexico vs South Africa? Can Bafana Bafana spring a surprise, or will home advantage give Mexico the winning edge? Share your thoughts below...