The 2026 FIFA World Cup began today, June 11, with co-host Mexico claiming a 2-0 victory over South Africa in front of a packed Estadio Azteca.

Julián Quiñones opened the scoring in the 9th minute before Raúl Jiménez sealed the win midway through the second half. The result gives Mexico an early lead in Group A and sets the tone for the first-ever World Cup hosted across three nations.

More than 80,000 fans filled Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca for the opening ceremony and match, marking the stadium’s third time hosting a World Cup opener. Brazil’s Wilton Sampaio officiated the game.

This year’s tournament is the biggest in history. Forty-eight teams will play 104 matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. The final is set for MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.

The group stage continues Friday with South Korea facing Czechia to complete Group A’s first round of games. Canada and the United States also begin their campaigns on June 12, with Canada hosting Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto and the U.S. playing Paraguay in Los Angeles.

The expanded format features 12 groups of four teams. The top two from each group, plus the eight best third-place teams, advance to a new Round of 32 starting June 28.

For Mexico, the win delivers momentum as they chase a strong run on home soil. South Africa will look to bounce back in their next group match as the tournament shifts into full swing across North America.