2026 World Cup: The 4 stars to watch in Group A

11.06.26 FT World Cup

Mexico

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South Africa

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The 2026 World Cup kicks off this Thursday, June 11, 2026, with Mexico taking on South Africa in the opening match. Let’s take a look at the four stars to keep an eye on in Group A, which also features South Korea and Czechia.

Gilberto Mora (Mexico)

At just 17 years old, Gilberto Mora is one of the breakout talents to follow at the 2026 World Cup. In a Mexican squad lacking big names, the young attacking midfielder from Club Tijuana in the top division could be one of the tournament's pleasant surprises. Playing in front of his home crowd, the Tuxtla Gutiérrez native has everything it takes to shine, having already impressed at the 2025 U20 World Cup with 3 goals and 2 assists in five matches.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi (South Africa)

After moving from Orlando Pirates to Chicago this winter, Mbekezeli Mbokazi made an immediate impact in MLS. The 20-year-old defender has already played 18 matches for his American franchise. With ten caps (and one goal) for the Bafana Bafana, he’s considered one of the team’s brightest prospects. Hugo Broos will be counting on him to help secure the backline and book a place in the round of 16.

Son Heung-min (South Korea)

Son Heung-min is the undisputed leader of this South Korean team. The 33-year-old captain is gearing up for his fourth World Cup appearance—and it might not be his last, as he could still feature in the next edition in 2030 in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, and perhaps even in Saudi Arabia in 2034. Capable of changing a game with a single moment of brilliance, the former Tottenham Hotspur striker will be surrounded by plenty of star talent, including Kim Min-jae, Lee Kang-in, Hwang In-beom, and Lee Jae-sung.

Patrik Schick (Czechia)

With 22 goals and 4 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions for Bayer Leverkusen, Patrik Schick is Czechia’s great hope for a deep run in the tournament. He’s the new Milan Baros for the national team, having already scored 26 goals in 53 caps.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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