World Cup begins as Mexico faces South Africa at Azteca Stadium
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 2:06 PM
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
The 23rd edition of the Geopolitics World Cup kicks off today with co-hosts Mexico taking on South Africa at the historic Azteca Stadium. The match marks a significant moment as the stadium is known for hosting iconic moments, including wins by Pelé and Diego Maradona. This tournament has drawn attention due to controversies surrounding inclusivity in the U.S., where the final will be held. Soccer fans around the world anticipate the excitement and drama that the tournament will bring.
- •Mexico plays South Africa in the tournament's opening match.
- •The match occurs at Azteca Stadium, a historic World Cup venue.
- •Controversies around U.S. inclusivity surround this year's tournament.
- •The final is set to take place in the United States.
- 2:06 PMThe Guardian Sport — Football Daily | World Cup day is upon us: chill, relax and revel in the euphoria and despair
"Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now! Happy GWC Day everyone! Sure, Bigger Cup may have become the pinnacle of football in the 21st century, but nothing stirs the child within like the beginning of a Geopolitics World Cup. The 23rd edition kicks off on Thursday when co-hosts Mexico face South Africa at the Azteca Stadium, a venue that is a World Cup Proustian rush all on its own. The two greatest players of all time, Pelé and Diego Maradona, both won the World Cup in that stadium. Kylian Mbappé, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lamine Yamal and the other modern greats won’t be able to do that this year, as the final is being played in the USA USA USA. As you may have read, that country is currently run by a disinfectant-peddling despot, and its approach to inclusivity has been one of many controversies heading into the tournament. Continue reading...
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