The largest edition in football history kicks off with the 2026 World Cup opening match between hosts Mexico and South Africa at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Thursday, June 11, 2026 — a moment billions await, launching the first World Cup hosted by three nations.
The Azteca becomes the first stadium ever to host three World Cup opening matches (after 1970 and 1986), with a capacity near 87,500.
Kick-off time
Gates open at 9:00 local, the ceremony begins at 11:00 (17:00 GMT), and kick-off is at 13:00 local (19:00 GMT — about 10 p.m. Saudi time). Mexico City declared the day a public holiday, with schools closed.
A Latin-flavoured ceremony
A grand opening ceremony precedes the match, headlined by global star Shakira among others (full details in a separate Malaab Al-An report).
Mexico seek a strong start
Roared on by a packed Azteca, Mexico aim for a powerful start, while a returning South Africa hope to spring a surprise.
The start of the biggest edition ever
- 48 teams for the first time.
- 104 matches over 39 days.
- Three hosts: Mexico, USA and Canada.
- Final on July 19, 2026.
When and where is the 2026 World Cup opening match?
Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the Azteca in Mexico City — Mexico vs South Africa.
Follow the opening match and every 2026 World Cup game live on Malaab Al-An.