Mexico City, June 4: Mexico and South Africa will open the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 11 at the Mexico City Stadium, recreating the tournament’s opening fixture from 2010. South Africa returns to the finals for the first time since hosting that edition, while South Korea make their 12th World Cup appearance and the Czech Republic return after a 20-year absence.
MEXICO
Hosts Mexico will aim to improve on their recent World Cup performances after a group-stage exit in Qatar ended a run of seven straight Round-of-16 appearances. Under veteran coach Javier Aguirre, Mexico have adopted a more direct style built on pressing and quick transitions.
Captain Edson Alvarez anchors a balanced side featuring creative talents Gilberto Mora and Alvaro Fidalgo, while Raul Jimenez remains the focal point in attack. Defensively, Johan Vasquez and Cesar Montes provide stability at the back.
Star player: Raul JimenezThe experienced striker has overcome serious injuries and remains Mexico’s key attacking figure.
Player to watch: Gilberto Mora
The 17-year-old midfielder is regarded as one of Mexico’s brightest emerging talents.
SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa’s previous World Cup appearances ended in the group stage, but Hugo Broos has transformed Bafana Bafana into a competitive outfit since taking charge in 2021.
Built largely around domestic-based players, South Africa rely on organisation, teamwork and counterattacking football. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and midfielder Teboho Mokoena are among the team’s key figures.Star player: Teboho MokoenaThe deep-lying playmaker drives South Africa’s midfield and contributes at both ends of the pitch.Player to watch: Relebohile MofokengThe exciting Orlando Pirates forward is considered one of the country’s most promising young stars.
SOUTH KOREA
South Korea enter their 12th World Cup appearance hoping to reach the knockout rounds for the fourth time. The Taegeuk Warriors came through qualifying unbeaten but have produced mixed results in recent friendlies.Coach Hong Myung-bo has a squad packed with European-based talent, though injuries and fitness concerns surrounding several senior players have complicated preparations.
Star player: Son Heung-min
The captain remains South Korea’s most influential player and biggest match-winner.
Player to watch: Oh Hyeon-gyuThe Besiktas striker has impressed at club level and could provide an important attacking option.
CZECH REPUBLIC
The Czech Republic return to the World Cup for the first time since 2006 after securing qualification through the playoffs. Known for their organisation, physicality and strength from set pieces, they will look to upset more fancied opponents.
Veterans Tomas Soucek, Ladislav Krejci and Patrik Schick form the backbone of the squad, while coach Miroslav Koubek has brought renewed confidence since taking charge.Star player: Patrik Schick
The Bayer Leverkusen striker remains the Czech Republic’s biggest goal threat.Player to watch: Pavel SulcThe creative midfielder is one of the country’s rising stars and could play a decisive role in North America.
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