From The Sports Desk: Mexico wins opener, U.S. starts its World Cup journey tonight
NBC News • • general
Key Points:
- Mexico kicked off the World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa in a heated match featuring three red cards, the first time such a number has occurred in an opening game.
- South Korea rallied to defeat Czechia 2-1, overcoming a first-half struggle and capitalizing on key plays in the second half at the Guadalajara Stadium.
- The U.S. men's national team, ranked 17th by FIFA, begins its World Cup campaign against Paraguay in Los Angeles, with high hopes pinned on star player Christian Pulisic and new coach Mauricio Pochettino.
- Canada faces Bosnia-Herzegovina in Toronto, seeking its first World Cup win after recent group stage exits, with forward Jonathan David leading the squad.
- The tournament spotlights top players like France’s Kylian Mbappé, who aims to lead his team to a third World Cup title following a strong season with Real Madrid and recovery from injury.