The wait is finally over. The expanded 48-team era of the FIFA World Cup kicks off tonight as co-hosts Mexico take on South Africa in their Group A opener at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
This highly anticipated fixture serves as a nostalgic flip of the script from 2010, when these two nations met in the opening match in Johannesburg a thrilling 1-1 draw.Tonight, both teams are desperate to start their 2026 campaigns with a crucial victory.
Mexico Team News: Ochoa and Jimenez Chasing History
Head coach Javier Aguirre, stepping into his third World Cup, is tasked with redeeming a squad that suffered a dismal group-stage exit in Qatar 2022.
All eyes will be on the Mexican goal. Legendary goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa is hoping to become the first player in football history to compete at six World Cups. However, he faces stiff competition from Raul Rangel for the starting spot tonight.
Up front, newly signed Wolves striker Raul Jimenez is chasing his own milestone. If he finds the back of the net against South Africa, he will tie Jared Borgetti (46 goals) as Mexico’s joint-second all-time leading goalscorer.
South Africa Team News: Bafana Bafana Ready to Spoil the Party
South Africa arrives in Mexico City with plans to crash the host nation's party. Head coach Hugo Broos has received a massive injury boost, with left-back Aubrey Modiba fully recovering from a hamstring issue and expected to start.
At the heart of the defense, Ime Okon and Mbekezeli Mbokazi are likely to be paired together. In midfield, a dynamic trio of Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, and Yaya Sithole will be tasked with disrupting Mexico's rhythm.
Mexico Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Guillermo Ochoa
Defenders: Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes, Edson Alvarez, Jesus Gallardo
Midfielders: Erick Gutierrez, Alvaro Fidalgo, Orbelin Pineda
Forwards: Roberto Alvarado, Raul Jimenez, Julian Quinones
South Africa Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams
Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Ime Okon, Aubrey Modiba
Midfielders: Thalente Mbatha, Yaya Sithole, Teboho Mokoena
Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Lyle Foster, Thapelo Moremi
