Mexico face South Africa in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday 11 June 2026 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. As one of the three host nations, Mexico kick off the first 48-team World Cup in front of a home crowd at one of football’s most historic grounds.
When and where
The match is played on 11 June 2026 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, the stadium that staged the World Cup finals of 1970 and 1986. It is the first of 104 matches at the 2026 tournament, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada.
The opening match
Mexico and South Africa meet in Group A. As hosts, Mexico carry the weight of opening the tournament and will want a confident start in front of their own supporters. South Africa, back at the World Cup finals, will aim to stay compact and take something from the occasion.
Group A
Group A also features South Korea and Czechia. The top two teams in each group advance to the new round of 32, along with the eight best third-placed sides, so points on the opening day matter even in a tight group.
How to watch
In the United States the match is shown on FOX and on Telemundo in Spanish; in the United Kingdom on the BBC or ITV; in Canada on TSN and CTV; and in Australia on Optus Sport. Exact kick-off times and channel listings are confirmed nearer the match.
Frequently asked questions
When is the 2026 World Cup opening match? Thursday 11 June 2026.
Who plays in the opening match? Hosts Mexico face South Africa in Group A.
Where is it played? The Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
For the full tournament schedule, groups and venues, see our World Cup 2026 guide.