World Cup 2026 Kicks Off as Mexico Opens With a Confident Win

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, marking the start of the largest edition in tournament history.

Co-host Mexico opened the competition with a strong 2-0 victory over South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez were reported among the key names involved as Mexico secured an important first win in front of a passionate home crowd.

The opening match also drew attention for its intensity, with multiple red cards making it one of the most dramatic starts to a World Cup in recent memory. For Mexico, however, the result delivers exactly what the hosts wanted: three points, momentum, and a powerful statement at the beginning of the group stage.

This year’s tournament is historic for several reasons. The 2026 World Cup is being hosted across Mexico, the United States, and Canada, and features an expanded 48-team format with 104 matches scheduled across the competition.

With the opening fixture complete, attention now turns to the remaining group-stage matches as teams begin their push toward the knockout rounds. Fans can expect a packed schedule, major storylines, and high-pressure football from the very first week.

Sources checked: FIFA, ESPN, CNN and Yahoo Sports.