Mark Stefanos
Mexico, one of the three North American World Cup 2026 hosts along with U.S. and Canada, netted a 2-0 win against South Africa in the opening match of the tournament today, June 11, in Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca.
Fans across the Southland celebrated the win at watch parties including at Plaza Mexico and the Coliseum.
Mexico has been in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup eight times, a record, including the first World Cup in 1930, but today was the first time they won. The match featured three red cards, two for South Africa, one for Mexico, also a record for an opening match.
The opening ceremony featured performances by Shakira, Burna Boy and a number of others including J Balvin, Ejae and Tyla.