​2026 FIFA World Cup Kicks Off Thursday with Mexico vs. South Africa

The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicks off on Thursday afternoon as co-host Mexico faces South Africa in the Group A opener at Mexico City Stadium at 3PM ET.

South Africa's World Cup Return
This will be South Africa’s fourth World Cup appearance, with their most recent coming as hosts in 2010. The team’s best performances came during their previous group-stage appearances in 1998, 2002, and 2010, though they were unable to advance beyond the opening round on each occasion and became the first host nation to be eliminated in the group stage. Currently ranked 60th in the world, Bafana Bafana will look to make history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time.

Among the players to watch is Olwethu Makhanya, the Philadelphia Union center back who earned a place in South Africa's 2026 World Cup squad after making his senior international debut earlier this year. The 22-year-old defender will have the opportunity to showcase his talent on soccer's biggest stage as South Africa returns to the tournament for the first time in 16 years.


Thursday's debut match sees El Tri will renew their rivalry with Bafana Bafana in a rematch of their memorable 2010 FIFA World Cup showdown in Johannesburg. Previously ending in a dramatic 1-1 draw, both sides will be eager to make a statement as they begin their 2026 campaigns.

In the 2010 match, South Africa’s Siphiwe Tshabalala, assisted by Kagisho Dikgacoi, unleashed an impressive left-footed shot in the top corner in the 55th minute. Holding the World Cup record of host nations never losing an opening match of the tournament, this potential victory was humbled by 24th ranked Mexico late in the second half.

Responding late in the second half, El Tri dominated possession, finding their equalizer in the 79th minute with a controlled cross-field goal from captain Rafael Márquez. The 17th ranked North American squad solidified the 1-1 draw, preserving South Africa’s long-standing record of never losing a World Cup opening match as a host nation.

While both teams will not be seen in the city of Philadelphia, this opening match will be taking place on Mexico’s home soil in Estadio Azteca. The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to build as these two seasoned World Cup competitors prepare to take an early step toward the knockout rounds.