Sports News Report
Sport: SoccerCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

World Cup begins with host Mexico facing South Africa at 9 PM

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 7:02 AM

Last updated Jun 11, 2026

World Cup begins with host Mexico facing South Africa at 9 PM
Summary

The 2026 World Cup kicks off today at 9 PM with Mexico taking on South Africa. This match marks the start of the tournament, where host nations have historically performed well in opening matches, with Qatar being the only host to lose its first game. Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk introduces a new hairstyle for the competition, while a significant mural honoring Neymar has been unveiled in Brazil ahead of his final World Cup. FIFA president Gianni Infantino addressed the situation regarding referee Omar Artan, who was barred from U.S. entry but received a hero's welcome in Somalia.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •2026 World Cup opener features Mexico vs. South Africa at 9 PM.
  • •Virgil van Dijk sports a new hairstyle for the tournament.
  • •Neymar mural dedicated in Brazil ahead of his final World Cup.
  • •FIFA president addresses Somali referee's barred entry.
Latest Updates
  • 7:02 AMYahoo Sports — 🥐☕️FC breakfast: World Cup day, van Dijk's new look, Neymar Street
What they're saying
"

World Cup opener: advantage host nation! 🏅On this opening day of the 2026 World Cup (Mexico – South Africa, 9pm), let’s take a look at the history of opening matches in the competition. To date...

Related Teams & Leagues
Soccer

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days