Mexico Beats South Africa in Opening Match as Historic 48-Team 2026 World Cup Kicks Off

The 2026 World Cup officially began on Thursday in Mexico City, with co-hosts Mexico taking a quick 1-0 lead over South Africa. Forward Julian Quinones scored in the ninth minute of the opening match, thrilling a crowd of 80,000 fans at the historic Estadio Azteca.

This match marks the start of the largest tournament in World Cup history, featuring 48 teams competing over nearly six weeks across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The massive event is projected to bring in a record-shattering $13 billion in revenue.

Before the game started, a vibrant opening ceremony took place inside the stadium, featuring performances by Shakira and Burna Boy, who sang the tournament’s official song, “Dai Dai.” However, there were some logistical issues outside the stadium, where scuffles broke out as large crowds tried to push into the official fan zone in the center of Mexico City.

The return to actual football is a welcome distraction for FIFA, which has faced heavy criticism over high ticket prices, with some premium seats costing up to $30,000. FIFA President Gianni Infantino strongly defended the organization, pointing out that they offered a limited number of $60 tickets, which he noted is cheaper than entry-level tickets for most major American sports playoffs.

The tournament has also faced political complications due to a strict U.S. immigration crackdown, which resulted in several Iranian team officials, fans, and a prominent referee being denied entry to the United States. Somali referee Omar Artan was barred from entry in Miami over alleged security concerns and was removed from the World Cup roster. Infantino downplayed the situation, stating that FIFA cannot control everything.

Interestingly, European football governing body UEFA responded by appointing Artan to referee the upcoming European Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa this August to show respect for his skills.

Despite political tensions between the U.S. and Iran, Infantino praised the fact that Iran was able to participate and credited U.S. President Donald Trump for making the tournament possible. Trump has confirmed he plans to attend several matches during the tournament.

With the tournament now underway, South Korea and the Czech Republic are scheduled to play the second game of the opening day in Guadalajara. While France, England, and Spain enter the tournament as favorites, many eyes will be on defending champions Argentina and their 38-year-old star Lionel Messi as they try to win another title.