The greatest show in sports has arrived. The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in Mexico City in June with the home team taking the pitch against South Africa.
It marks the third time Mexico will host the tournament, the latest in 1986. Regardless, it never gets old seeing El Tri represent their nation. Can the team get off to a quick start in their first group stage match?
In 2022, Mexico failed to advance out of the group stage, while South Africa has never moved on to the knockout round in three appearances, the most recent as host in 2010. It’ll be tough finishing among the top of Group A, but if the World Cup has taught fans anything, it’s to expect the unexpected.
Here’s how to see the tournament-opening match between Mexico and South Africa at Estadio Azteca with ticket prices and start time.
Mexico vs. South Africa tickets for 2026 FIFA World Cup match
Tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup are officially sold through FIFA. There are a handful of sale phases through which fans can enter ticket lotteries. Those interested in attending a match can register for the latest news and ticket information here.
However, since passes are not always guaranteed, you can buy tickets for the Mexico vs. South Africa match now on StubHub!
Given the match is the tournament opener, the cheapest ticket currently costs $3,000. Category 2 seats start at $4,200 while category 1 starts at $4,800. Prices are expected to fluctuate before the tournament begins.
Mexico vs. South Africa FIFA World Cup 2026 date, start time
- Date: Thursday, June 11
- Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
Mexico will face South Africa on Thursday, June 11 for the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match. Kickoff for the Group A meeting will be from Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Estadio Azteca seating chart
Stub.com
FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A teams
The FIFA World Cup draw has been finalized. Below is who will play through Group A in the group stage.
- Mexico
- South Africa
- South Korea
- UEFA D
Mexico FIFA World Cup schedule
Below is the Mexico schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For tickets to each fixture, click here.
| Date | Match | Venue |
| Thurs., June 11 | vs. South Africa | Estadio Azteca |
| Thurs., June 18 | vs. South Korea | Estadio Akron |
| Wed., June 24 | vs. UEFA D | Estadio Azteca |
South Africa FIFA World Cup schedule
Below is the South Africa schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For tickets to each fixture, click here.
| Date | Match | Site |
| Thurs., June 11 | vs. Mexico | Estadio Azteca |
| Thurs., June 18 | vs. UEFA D | Mercedes-Benz Stadium |
| Wed., June 24 | vs. South Korea | Estadio BBVA |
