2026 World Cup: Probable line-ups for the opening match Mexico vs South Africa

Africa 09 June 2026 at 13:28

Imed Ben Amara

News Editor

11.06.26 FT World Cup

Mexico

2

:

South Africa

0

Mexico faces South Africa in the opening game of the 2026 World Cup. The clash is scheduled for Thursday, June 11 at 8 PM GMT. Both teams are aiming for victory to take the lead in Group A, which also includes South Korea and Czechia.

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Javier Aguirre can rely on Fulham striker Raul Jimenez, who has scored 45 goals in 124 international appearances, as well as Vega (52 caps, 7 goals). AC Milan's Santiago Gimenez is expected to start on the bench, just like veteran goalkeeper Ochoa, who is set to participate in his sixth World Cup.

On the other hand, Hugo Broos is counting on his home-based players to bring down Mexico, but also on several Europe-based stars, including Burnley’s prolific striker Foster.

Probable line-ups:

Mexico: Rangel - Sanchez, Montes, Vasquez, Gallardo - Pineda, Alvarez, Fidalgo - Vega, Jiménez, Quinones.

South Africa: Williams - Mudau, Sibisi, Ndamane, Modiba - Sithole, Mokoena - Appollis, Zwane, Mofokeng - Foster.

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