Staff Reporter
THE FIFA World Cup 2026 gets underway today with South Africa at the centre of the opening day action, as Bafana Bafana face co-hosts Mexico in a highly anticipated Group A clash in Mexico City, with kickoff set for 21:00 Namibia time, while Korea Republic meet Czechia in the second fixture of the day in Guadalajara.
The tournament, jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, begins with a symbolic rematch of the 2010 opening game, when South Africa hosted Mexico. This time, however, it is Mexico who will raise the curtain on the expanded 104-match global showpiece on home soil.
South Africa, coached by Hugo Broos, arrive at the tournament after topping their CAF qualifying group to secure a place at a fourth World Cup. They face a stern test against a confident Mexican side playing in front of a home crowd at Mexico City Stadium.
Broos has acknowledged the challenge ahead but insisted his team is prepared for the intensity of the occasion, saying his players are ready to “fight for every metre and every ball” over 90 minutes. Midfielder Teboho Mokoena also highlighted the significance of the match, noting the high expectations and national pride attached to South Africa’s return to the global stage.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre, meanwhile, has described the occasion as one of the most emotional moments of his long career, saying his squad has grown together and embraced the pressure of opening the tournament at home.
In the second Group A fixture, Korea Republic begin their 11th consecutive World Cup appearance against Czechia in Guadalajara. The Europeans return to the tournament after a 20-year absence, setting up a first-ever World Cup meeting between the two sides.
Korea Republic coach Hong Myung-bo has stressed the importance of composure on the opening day spotlight, while captain Son Heung-min says the squad’s intense preparation reflects their determination to make an impact on the global stage.
Czechia, led by Patrik Schick, will rely on a mix of returning talent and attacking depth as they look to mark their comeback with a strong opening result.
Both matches will determine early momentum in Group A as the 2026 World Cup begins its record-breaking journey across North America.
Source: FIFA
