The 2026 FIFA World Cup began Thursday with Mexico taking on South Africa in Group A at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The match marks the start of the expanded 48 team tournament co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States.
Mexico City Stadium hosted the opener for the third time in World Cup history. South Africa and Mexico met in the 2010 tournament’s first game, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The 2026 edition features 104 total matches across 16 venues in three countries.
Later on opening day, South Korea faced Czechia in another Group A match at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara. Additional opening week games are scheduled Friday, including Canada versus Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto and the United States against Paraguay in Los Angeles.
The tournament runs through July 19, with the final set for MetLife Stadium in the New York area.