The 2026 World Cup is finally here. It has been 1,271 days since Lionel Messi and Argentina lifted the trophy in Qatar, and now the tournament returns with an expanded format. The action kicks off today at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where co-hosts Mexico face South Africa in a rematch of the 2010 World Cup opener, though this time with the roles reversed. Later, South Korea and Czechia begin their campaigns in Guadalajara.
Between now and 19 July, 48 teams will compete in 104 matches across 16 host cities in three countries. Here is everything you need to know about today's games, including kick-off times, broadcast networks, and streaming options.
Mexico vs South Africa
Time (ET): 3pm
Stadium: Mexico City Stadium (Estadio Azteca)
How to Watch
- United States: FOX (Stream on Fubo)
- Canada: CTV / TSN (Stream)
- United Kingdom: BBC / ITV (Stream)
- Australia: SBS (Stream)
Follow along with the Guardian's live blog for real-time updates.
What to Watch For
World Cup openers often produce memorable moments. Everyone recalls Siphiwe Tshabalala's stunning goal for South Africa in 2010, or Senegal's shock win over defending champions France in 2002. Whatever happens at the Azteca today, it will be etched in World Cup history. Mexico hopes for a home victory to start their campaign. El Tri enters the opener on an eight-game unbeaten run, raising hopes that Javier Aguirre's side may be peaking at the right time. South Africa, meanwhile, boasts a core of players who recently became African champions with Mamelodi Sundowns.
Player to Watch: Brian Gutierrez, Mexico – The 22-year-old could have been part of the USMNT squad under Mauricio Pochettino, but instead he will be one of Mexico's primary creative threats in the final third.
What to Read
- South Africa team guide
- Mexico team guide
South Korea vs Czechia
Time (ET): 10pm
Stadium: Guadalajara Stadium
How to Watch
- United States: FS1 (Stream on Fubo)
- Canada: TSN (Stream)
- United Kingdom: BBC / ITV (Stream)
- Australia: SBS (Stream)
Follow along with the Guardian's live blog.
What to Watch For
South Korea and Czechia meet in Guadalajara in a match that could heavily influence both teams' chances of advancing from the group stage. With the new format, three points would put either side on the brink of qualification, as the eight best third-place teams progress to the round of 32. Optimism is scarce for South Korea, with doubts lingering over manager Hong Myung-bo's formation and the form of key players. Czechia, however, may still be riding high after their playoff penalty shootout victory over the Republic of Ireland to qualify.
Player to Watch: Son Heung-min, South Korea – If South Korea are to get a positive result, they need Son in top form. He remains their greatest goal threat and most accomplished player.
What to Read
- South Korea team guide
- Czechia team guide
Some streaming links in this article were provided by the Guardian's advertising partner, FuboTV.
