Mexico and South Africa meet again in World Cup opening match

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Plus: a national first for Madrid and have Everton supplied the most former managers to World Cup 2026? Mail us with your all of your questions and answers “The opening match of the year’s World Cup is Mexico v South Africa,” notes Matt Reilly. “This was also the first game of South Africa’s World Cup in 2010. Is this the first time that an opening match of a World Cup has featured the same two teams as a previous tournament? If not, what is the most common opening fixture of a World Cup?” The hosts South Africa drew 1-1 with Mexico in the opening game of the 2010 edition. Siphiwe Tshabalala put them ahead with a spectacular goal before Rafael Márquez scored a 79th-minute equaliser. The two sides will meet again at the Azteca on Thursday. 1950 Brazil 4-0 Mexico Ademir 2, Jair, Baltazar 1954 Brazil 5-0 Mexico Baltazar, Didi, Pinga 2, Julinho 1962 Brazil 2-0 Mexico Zagallo, Pelé Continue reading...