The 2026 World Cup is finally here, kicking off 1,271 days after Argentina's triumph in Qatar. The tournament begins at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where co-hosts Mexico face South Africa in a rematch of the 2010 opening match, though this time with roles reversed. Later, South Korea and Czechia start their campaigns in Guadalajara.
From now until 19 July, 48 teams will compete in 104 matches across 16 host cities in three countries. Here is your complete guide to today's games, including kick-off times, broadcast networks, and streaming options.
Mexico vs South Africa
Time (ET): 3pm
Stadium: Mexico City Stadium
How to Watch
- United States: FOX / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo)
- Canada: CTV / TSN (Stream)
- United Kingdom: BBC / ITV (Stream)
- Australia: SBS (Stream)
Follow along with the Guardian's live blog.
What to Watch For
World Cup openers are unforgettable. Fans still recall Siphiwe Tshabalala's stunning goal for South Africa in 2010, or Senegal's shock win over defending champions France in 2002. Whatever happens at the Azteca today will be etched in World Cup history, though Mexico hopes it will be a home victory. El Tri enter Thursday's opener on an eight-game unbeaten run, boosting hopes that Javier Aguirre's team is peaking at the right time. South Africa boasts a core of players from Mamelodi Sundowns, who recently became continental champions.
Player to Watch: Brian Gutierrez, Mexico – The 22-year-old could have been part of Mauricio Pochettino's USMNT squad, but instead he will be one of Mexico's primary creative threats in the final third.
South Korea vs Czechia
Time (ET): 10pm
Stadium: Guadalajara Stadium
How to Watch
- United States: FS1 / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo)
- Canada: TSN (Stream)
- United Kingdom: BBC / ITV (Stream)
- Australia: SBS (Stream)
Follow along with the Guardian's live blog.
What to Watch For
South Korea and Czechia meet in Guadalajara in a match that could heavily influence both teams' chances of advancing. The new format means three points would put either side on the brink of qualification, with the eight best third-place teams going through to the round of 32. Optimism is low for South Korea, with doubts over manager Hong Myung-bo's formation and key players' form. Czechia may still be riding high after their playoff penalty shootout victory over the Republic of Ireland to qualify.
Player to Watch: Son Heung-min, South Korea – If South Korea hope for a positive result, they need Son in top form. He remains their greatest goal threat and most accomplished player.
