The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup kicked off with cohosts Mexico beating South Africa 2-0.
The tournament opener was played at Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City, Mexico, where Julian Quinones gave the home side the lead in the first half. Raul Jiminez added the second in a match that saw three red cards issued.
The match was the first of the 23rd edition of football’s global showpiece, and began with an opening ceremony 90 minutes before the scheduled kickoff.
Fellow hosts, Canada and the United States, begin their campaigns on Friday and Saturday respectively – both their matches will also be preceded by opening ceremonies.
Argentina are the defending champions, having lifted the trophy at Qatar 2022, and begin their tournament against Algeria on Wednesday.–Al Jazeera
