Group A standings
| # | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Mexico | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2 |  South Korea | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 3 |  South Africa | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 4 |  Czech Republic | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
What each team needs
Mexico
A win in their opening match would put Mexico in a strong position to advance from Group A.
South Africa
An opening win over Mexico would be a major statement and strengthen South Africa's chances of progressing.
Team comparison
| Stat | Mexico | South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| FIFA Ranking | 15 | 61 |
| World Cup Titles | 0 | 0 |
| World Cup Appearances | 18 | 4 |
| Best WC Finish | Quarterfinals (1970, 1986) | Group stage (2002, 2010) |
| Manager | Javier Aguirre | Hugo Broos |
| How They Qualified | Host nation — automatic qualification | CAF — Group C runners-up |
| 2022 World Cup | Group stage — eliminated | Did not qualify |
| Captain | Edson Álvarez | Ronwen Williams |
Prediction
Mexico 2 — 1 South Africa
Based on FIFA rankings and recent form. Mexico (ranked 15th) enters as the slight favourite.
Match facts
Mexico have appeared at 18 World Cups. South Africa have appeared at 4.
Mexico are ranked 15th in the world. South Africa are ranked 61th.
This match takes place at Estadio Azteca, which is one of the 16 World Cup 2026 venues.
How to watch
| Region | Broadcast |
|---|---|
| USA (English) | FOX / FOX Sports App |
| USA (Spanish) | Telemundo / Peacock |
| UK | BBC / ITV (TBC) |
| Worldwide | FIFA+ (select territories) |
Venue
Estadio Azteca · Mexico City · Capacity: 72,766
Full stadium guide →