The 2026 World Cup kicked off with a glitzy opening ceremony in Mexico City, where the iconic Azteca Stadium hosted a highly anticipated match. Mexican fans, who had waited 40 years to host the tournament again, filled all 83,000 seats 90 minutes before kick-off, despite protests and road closures. The atmosphere was electric, with sombreros flying and the Mexican Wave starting in the 17th minute.
Shakira's Return
Shakira headlined the opening ceremony, performing the official song 'Dai Dai' alongside Burna Boy, J Balvin, and Danny Ocean. Her 2010 hit 'Waka Waka' remains a global phenomenon, with over 4.4 billion YouTube views. Notably, more than £7 million from the song's proceeds intended for charity is still unaccounted for. Andrea Bocelli also performed the anthem 'DNA', while the lengthy process of 48 flag bearers entering the pitch highlighted the tournament's scale.
Humble Gianni Infantino
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, previously self-aggrandizing, adopted a humbler tone, acknowledging FIFA's limited influence on US immigration and security policies. This shift contrasts with his past rhetoric and his alternative to the Nobel Peace Prize.
Hungry Hosts
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0, with goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez. The team benefited from a five-week training camp for Liga MX players, showing sharpness and dominance. Wingers Roberto Alvarado and Quiñones impressed, setting up potential challenges for South Korea and Czechia. Mexico could face England in the last 16 if both win their groups.
Long Haul Games
The opening match lasted over two hours, including three-minute hydration breaks despite 22°C temperatures. With few stoppages, the half-time whistle blew after 55 minutes. This sets a precedent for lengthy matches, especially in hotter conditions, potentially exceeding two hours regularly.
