Starting lineups announced for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup between Mexico and South Africa
- Author: Vahe Hakobyan
- Sportaran
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11 in Mexico City, where hosts Mexico will face South Africa in the tournament's opening match.
Interestingly, these same two teams also opened the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. That encounter ended in a 1-1 draw.
Kick-off is scheduled for 11:00 PM Yerevan time (10:00 PM Moscow time).
One of the biggest talking points for Mexican fans is that legendary goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa will start the match on the bench. However, El Tri's starting lineup still features veteran striker Raúl Jiménez, powerful forward Juan Quiñones and highly-rated youngster Ryan Gutiérrez.
South Africa's biggest star is Burnley forward Lyle Foster.
Mexico starting lineup
Rangel — Fernández, Montes, Vásquez, Gallardo — Lira, Alvarado, Gutiérrez, Fidalgo, Quiñones — Raúl Jiménez.
South Africa starting lineup
Williams — Mudau, Okon, Sibisi, Mbokazi, Modiba — Mokoena, Sithole, Adams — Foster, Rayners.
It should be noted that the 2026 FIFA World Cup is being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. For the first time in history, 48 national teams are taking part in the final tournament, with a total of 104 matches scheduled.