Find all the essential information about the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup between Mexico and South Africa: date, kick-off time, stadium, TV broadcast and live streaming platforms.
The 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup will kick off with a headline clash between Mexico, one of the tournament's three host nations, and South Africa. This curtain-raiser will take place on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the legendary Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
The match is set to begin at 19:00 GMT, officially launching the first ever World Cup featuring 48 national teams.
To officiate this highly anticipated encounter, FIFA has appointed Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio (44 years old).
The tournament will run until July 19, 2026, when the final will be held at the New York–New Jersey Stadium in the United States.
🚨 OFFICIAL! Wilton Sampaio 🇧🇷 will referee the opening match of the World Cup between Mexico 🇲🇽 and South Africa 🇿🇦! pic.twitter.com/Or4r32zG3h
The history between Mexico and South Africa counts four previous encounters, with "El Tri Color" winning two friendlies (4-0 in 1993 and 4-2 in 2000).
Mexico and South Africa have faced off four times. The "El Tri" squad won two friendlies: 4-0 in 1993 and 4-2 in 2000.
"Bafana Bafana," meanwhile, claimed victory in the first official meeting between the sides at the 2005 Gold Cup (2-1).
Finally, the most recent official clash took place in the opening match of the 2010 World Cup, ending in a draw (1-1).
Fan-centric pre-match ceremony to debut at @FIFAWorldCup 2026
FIFA has unveiled a bold new vision for pre-match ceremonies at the FIFA World Cup 2026 designed to deepen the connection between players and fans while elevating a moment already rich with anticipation: