A clash between Mexico and South Africa at the famous Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will get the 2026 World Cup underway on Thursday, at 9PM(Central African Time). The game will reunite the two national teams that also met in the opening game of the 2010 tournament, drawing 1-1 in Johannesburg. ALSO READ: Top young players to watch at 2026 World Cup Mexico will be looking to make a strong start in front of their home fans after a disappointing group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup. South Africa, meanwhile, return to the global stage for the first time since 2010 and hope to reach the knockout rounds for the first time in their history. Times Sport break down What to expect as Mexico take on South Africa in the 2026 World Cup opener: Players to watch: Ronwen Williams (South Africa) Williams was named Best Goalkeeper at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after producing several crucial saves and helping Bafana Bafana secure a third-place finish. He could be the busiest player on the pitch. ALSO READ: Africa must go to the World Cup to compete, not merely participate Lyle Foster (South Africa) The Burnley striker is expected to lead South Africa's attack. Last season, Foster scored three goals and provided two assists in the English Premier League. His pace and movement could cause problems for the Mexican defence. Raul Jimenez (Mexico) The experienced striker remains one of Mexico's top weapons. Jimenez brings years of international experience and will be expected to lead the hosts' attack with power. Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico) Although unlikely to start, Ochoa has made history by being included in Mexico's World Cup squad for a sixth tournament, more than any other goalkeeper in World Cup history. Key statistics: South Africa and Mexico have a history on the World Cup stage, having drawn 1-1 in the opening match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Bafana Bafana are returning to the tournament for the first time since hosting it in 2010 and are still searching for their first appearance in the knockout stages. Mexico, meanwhile, had reached the Round of 16 in seven consecutive World Cups before suffering a group-stage exit in 2022. The match will be played at the iconic Estadio Azteca, the only stadium in history to have hosted two FIFA World Cup finals.
