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Mexico takes on South Africa in the World Cup 2026 opener at the Estadio Azteca as the biggest global event of this year finally gets underway
19:11, 11 Jun 2026
Players of Mexico pose during the international friendly match between Mexico and Serbia at Nemesio Diez Stadium on June 4, 2026 in Toluca, Mexico.
Mexico will kick off the World Cup in their home country(Image: Eduardo Valdez/Jam Media/Getty Images)
TV channel and live stream details for Mexico vs South Africa in World Cup opener.
Kick-off time: The tournament opener is scheduled for Thursday, June 11. The match will begin at exactly 3 pm ET / 8pm BST, which translates to a 1pm local kick-off time for those watching from the host city.
Location: The match will be played at the historic Estadio Azteca, also known as the Mexico City Stadium, located in the capital. The iconic venue will host five matches in total.
UK TV channel: British viewers can watch the live opening game on ITV1 for free. The network's pre-match coverage and build-up programme gets underway at 6:15pm UK time, meaning fans won't miss a moment of the opening ceremony.
US TV channel: Viewers in the United States can catch the action on FOX (English) or Telemundo (Spanish)
Live stream information: The game will be available through the Fox Sports app and the free streaming service Tubi.
Team news: Javier Aguirre's Mexico side will rely heavily on experienced striker Raúl Jiménez to lead the front line. For South Africa, manager Hugo Broos will look to Burnley forward Lyle Foster to spearhead the attack, with Olwethu Makhanya offering defensive cover.
Head-to-head record: The two nations have crossed paths on four occasions in previous international matches, with Mexico claiming victory twice, South Africa once, and one match ending all square. Their most memorable meeting came 16 years ago in the opening game of the 2010 World Cup, when Siphiwe Tshabalala netted a legendary opener before Rafael Márquez levelled to seal a 1-1 draw.
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