The 2026 FIFA World Cup is almost here, with the opening match set for Thursday, June 11, featuring host nation Mexico against South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The tournament spans across North America, with matches in the United States and Canada, culminating in the final at Met Life Stadium in New York on July 19.
To predict how the curtain-raiser might unfold, EA Sports FC 26's new The World's Game mode was used to simulate the match. The results were disappointing for Mexican fans, as the simulation ended in a 0-0 draw—a repeat of history. In 1970, Mexico also began their World Cup campaign at the same venue with a goalless draw against the Soviet Union.
Simulation Details
According to the simulation, Mexico failed to register a single shot on goal, making them the first host nation to do so in an opening match. This surpasses Qatar's record in 2022, where they had five shots (none on target) against Ecuador. The closest chance came from a South Africa free-kick just before halftime, when Aubrey Modiba's effort went over the bar. Goalkeeper Raul Rangel made a routine save from Themba Zwane in the second half, but Mexico's attack, led by Raul Jimenez and Julian Quinones, was ineffective despite holding 66% possession.
What This Means
If the simulation proves accurate, Mexican fans and global viewers tuning in at 8pm on Thursday will witness a dull opener. However, EA FC 26 predictions are not always reliable, and the real match could be vastly different. The simulation serves as a cautionary tale, but football is unpredictable.
