Published 4 days ago • loading... • Updated 3 days ago

World Cup What to Know: Mexico Starts with Big Win While U.S., Canada Prepare for Openers

On Thursday, June 11, 2026, the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicked off as host nation Mexico faced South Africa in the opening Group A match at Mexico City Stadium.
These teams previously opened the 2010 World Cup in Johannesburg, ending in a 1-1 draw after South Africa's Siphiwe Tshabalala scored the tournament's first goal 16 years ago.
Mexico forward Julian Quinones scored the opening goal against South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, celebrating with teammate Israel Reyes as the home crowd roared.
Referee Wilton Sampaio issued a yellow card to South Africa midfielder Teboho Mokoena, while Mexico's Erik Lira and South Africa's Lyle Foster battled for midfield control.
South Africa pursues their first knockout stage appearance at the FIFA World Cup, while Mexico chases their first-ever semi-final spot in the 2026 tournament.

Insights by Ground AI

39 Articles

LancasterOnline

Reposted by

Independent Español

Center

World Cup Starts in Mexico City and Other Photos of the Week in Latin America and the Caribbean

Mexico, co-host of the biggest football World Cup in history, signed an excellent start in the tournament with a 2-0 win over South Africa in the inaugural match, ahead of 80,824 fans in the iconic Azteca Stadium of the...

3 days ago·Lancaster, United States

Read Full Article

BBC News

Center

Mexico fans share excitement as World Cup kicks off

The BBC spoke to match-goers outside Azteca Stadium, where Mexico began the tournament with a 2-0 victory over South Africa.

3 days ago·United Kingdom

Read Full Article

Bozeman Daily Chronicle

+22 Reposted by 22 other sources

Center

World Cup what to know: Mexico starts with big win while U.S., Canada prepare for openers

Mexico opened the World Cup in style with a dominant 2-0 win over South Africa in front of a boisterous home crowd at Azteca Stadium. The U.S. and Canada both get their opportunity for a fast start in front of…

3 days ago·Cherokee County, United States

Read Full Article

Knox News

Center

See the top moments from Mexico vs South Africa in FIFA World Cup opener

Top moments from Mexico vs South Africa FIFA World Cup opener, featuring key plays, goals and standout performances at Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026.

3 days ago·Nashville, United States

Read Full Article