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...
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- FIFA World Cup•Jun 11, 2026, 4:50 PMWhy World Cup debutants will wear special patch on their jerseys during 2026 tournament
- Champions League•Jun 11, 2026, 4:50 PMBernardo Silva advancing in contract talks with Real Madrid, confirms Fabrizio Romano
- MLS•Jun 11, 2026, 4:47 PMArizona Digest. Phoenix Rising FC lose at home to Louisville City
- FIFA World Cup•Jun 11, 2026, 4:46 PMBritish Superfan Andy Milne Is Selling His House to Attend His 10th World Cup
- MLS•Jun 11, 2026, 4:45 PMBest places to watch the 2026 World Cup in the USA: Bars, watch parties, top locations
- FIFA World Cup•Jun 11, 2026, 4:45 PMThe best football kits we’ll see at FIFA World Cup 2026
