Live updates: Mexico’s Julián Quiñones scores first goal of 2026 FIFA World Cup
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off in Mexico City with Mexico facing South Africa at the high-altitude Azteca Stadium, featuring new hydration breaks due to expected hot temperatures.
- Ticket prices sparked controversy, with many Mexican fans unable to afford entry and protests highlighting social issues including Mexico’s missing persons crisis and political corruption.
- Mexico's squad includes two Mexican American players, with 22-year-old Brian Gutierrez making history as the first Mexican American starter for Mexico in a World Cup.
- South Africa returns to the World Cup stage for the first time since hosting in 2010, featuring several players from the reigning African club champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
- The opening ceremony showcased performances by international stars like Andrea Bocelli, J Balvin, and Shakira, while security measures were heightened with over 100,000 personnel deployed across host cities.