Key facts
- South Africa's Aubrey Modiba is fit to start in the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Mexico.
- The tournament begins with the match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City Stadium.
- The game kicks off at 1pm local time (19:00 GMT).
- South Africa's starting XI features five defenders, including Modiba at left-back.
- Raul Jimenez leads the line for Mexico in a 4-1-4-1 formation.
- Mexico's coach Javier Aguirre made one change to the lineup, with Israel Reyes starting.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup commences with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa in the tournament opener at Mexico City Stadium. The match is scheduled to kick off at 1pm local time, which is 19:00 GMT.
South Africa's left-back, Aubrey Modiba, has been declared fit to start, overcoming an injury concern that had made him a doubt for the game. The starting lineup for South Africa includes Ronwen Williams as captain and goalkeeper, alongside Modiba, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon, Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole, Jayden Adams, Lyle Foster, and Iqraam Rayners.
Mexico, the other co-host, will feature star player Raul Jimenez in their starting XI. Manager Javier Aguirre has made one alteration from their last friendly, bringing in Israel Reyes for Jorge Sanchez. The Mexican lineup consists of goalkeeper Raul Rangel, captain Cesar Montes, Johan Vasquez, Israel Reyes, Jesus Gallardo, Erik Lira, Alvaro Fidalgo, Brian Gutierrez, Raul Jimenez, Julian Quinones, and Roberto Alvarado.
This edition of the FIFA World Cup is the largest ever, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches. Football's global governing body, FIFA, is expected to generate a record $13 billion in revenue from the tournament.