FIFA World Cup 2026 opens with Mexico vs South Africa in Mexico City

BAGHDAD, Iraq — MEXICO CITY — The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off Friday with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City Stadium, the venue that hosted the 1970 and 1986 finals. Kickoff is set for 11 p.m. local time, 6 a.m. GMT. Mexico plays in Group A alongside South Korea and the Czechia, the latter returning to the World Cup stage for the first time since 2006. The tournament is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and will feature a record 104 matches. The final is scheduled for July 19 at New York-New Jersey Stadium. beIN Sports holds the broadcast rights for the opening match across the Middle East and North Africa. Iraq's national team will open its campaign against Norway on the night of June 17, with kickoff at midnight.