Mexico Open the World Cup in Style
Mexico 2-0 South Africa. Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, June 11, 2026. The most historic stadium in football hosted the opening match of World Cup 2026 — and Mexico delivered for their fans. 87,500 fans in one of the most electric atmospheres in sporting history. El Tri won, and the tournament was officially underway.
The Goals
Hirving Lozano opened the scoring in the 28th minute — a sharp turn and finish inside the box after Mexico quick passing movement. 1-0. The Azteca erupted. Raul Jimenez doubled the lead in the 67th minute — a powerful header from a Lozano cross. Mexico were comfortable, professional, and perfectly matched to the occasion.
The Atmosphere
No stadium on earth produces an atmosphere like the Azteca when Mexico are playing. The noise, the colour, the passion — international media described it as unlike anything they had witnessed at a sporting event. For the 87,500 inside the ground, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Mexico Chances
Mexico have historically underperformed at World Cups — eliminated in the Round of 16 for seven consecutive tournaments (1994-2018). In 2026, playing at home with the Azteca crowd behind them, the curse must end. The opening win is the foundation. The next matches against Korea Republic and Czechia will determine whether Mexico finally break through.
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