2026 World Cup kicks off with Mexico taking early advantage over S’Africa

The 2026 World Cup commenced with co-hosts Mexico establishing an early advantage over South Africa, delighting the 80,000 spectators at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

Julian Quinones ignited the crowd in the ninth minute, scoring the tournament's first goal and signaling Mexico's initial control of the match. This opening game took place in a stadium steeped in World Cup history, having hosted the 1970 and 1986 finals.

The tournament, which will span nearly six weeks and feature a record 48 teams, is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. It is poised to be the most expansive World Cup to date, culminating in the final in New Jersey on July 19. Projections estimate a record-breaking total revenue of $13 billion.

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Our average price which is below 500 dollars is again the lowest of the American sports on average.

Before the kickoff, the Estadio Azteca was illuminated by an opening ceremony featuring performances by Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy, who presented the official tournament song, "Dai Dai." However, the festive atmosphere was marred by scuffles outside the stadium as fans jostled to enter the official fan zone in central Mexico City.

The start of the on-pitch action offers a welcome distraction for FIFA, the sport's global governing body, which has been grappling with criticism over exorbitant ticket prices. Additionally, immigration policies in the United States have led to entry denials for a prominent referee, Iranian team officials, and fans.

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It is unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia. We don’t control everything… Sometimes it’s good to chill, relax, we work on everything, we try to solve everything.