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FourFourTwo previews the curtain-raiser of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After a four-year wait, the world’s biggest football tournament kicks off with a familiar matchup — Mexico taking on South Africa. If that sounds like déjà vu, it’s because these two nations opened the 2010 edition in Johannesburg. On that occasion, Bafana Bafana’s Siphiwe Tshabalala ignited celebrations across the continent with what commentator Peter Drury famously described as a ‘Goal for all Africa’, before Mexican captain Rafael Marquez silenced the crowd with a late equaliser.

Much has changed since that memorable encounter. Marquez now serves as Mexico’s assistant coach, and the competition has expanded by 50 per cent, ushering in a new era — the first-ever 48-team World Cup and the first to feature three co-hosts. Although much of the pre-tournament talk has centred around off-field politics, attention now turns to the football itself, with Mexico City’s legendary Estadio Azteca providing an iconic stage for the opening clash.

The 83,000-seater Azteca will make history as the first venue to host the opening match of three World Cups. The previous two, Mexico versus the Soviet Union in 1970 and Italy against Bulgaria in 1986, both ended in draws. The home side, however, will be keen to rewrite that pattern this time.

Mexico’s biggest advantage lies in their passionate supporters, whose energy can lift the team, particularly in the tournament opener. Yet, perhaps an even greater edge could come from the altitude.

Situated 2,200 metres above sea level, the Azteca’s elevation can sap stamina from visiting teams unaccustomed to such conditions, making fatigue a major factor. Interestingly, Soccer City in Johannesburg — the site of the 2010 opener — sits at 1,750 metres, meaning South Africa might be better prepared for the challenge than most. The emotional intensity of the first match could also serve as an equaliser.

Even without relying solely on environmental factors, Mexico’s recent form should inspire confidence. Javier Aguirre’s squad enters the competition unbeaten in eight matches in 2026, including a commanding 5-1 victory over Serbia in their final warm-up in Toluca, where the hosts overwhelmed their opponents in front of a roaring crowd.

Up front, Mexico will look to veteran striker Raul Jimenez for goals. At 35, the forward’s experience could prove vital. Having recently announced his return to Wolverhampton Wanderers after leaving Fulham, Jimenez scored against Serbia and also netted the equaliser in last year’s 2-1 Gold Cup final triumph over the United States.

While their dependence on Jimenez might signal a lack of fresh attacking options, the team’s momentum, home advantage, and South Africa’s current struggles suggest Mexico should have enough to secure victory.

South Africa, meanwhile, are known for their disciplined defending and hard-working style. They are unlikely to panic even if Mexico control possession. However, their FIFA ranking of 60 — 46 places below the hosts — highlights the gulf between the sides.

Bafana Bafana impressed in qualifying, finishing ahead of Nigeria, but their Africa Cup of Nations campaign ended in disappointment with a last-16 exit to Cameroon. Since then, they have gone winless in matches against Panama (twice), Nicaragua, and Jamaica, which could dent their confidence heading into this high-pressure encounter.

If South Africa fall behind early, the atmosphere inside the Azteca could make recovery difficult.

Prediction: Mexico 1-0 South Africa

It may not produce fireworks, but the co-hosts are expected to edge past their opponents and claim an important opening win.