Mexico opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup against South Africa at a packed Estadio Azteca, beginning the first-ever 48-team tournament. Javier Aguirre’s side started as favourites, deploying an attacking 4-3-3 led by Raúl Jiménez. South Africa opted for a defensive 5-3-2 under Hugo Broos. Historic figures Guillermo Ochoa and teenage sensation Gilberto Mora started on the bench.
