Álvaro Fidalgo should start in Mexico’s midfield in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 29-year-old midfielder, from Spain’s Real Betis, is one of Javier Aguirre’s main creative options for the duel against South Africa, this Thursday (11), at the Azteca Stadium, in Mexico City. Kick-off is scheduled for 4pm (Brasília time).
Born on April 9, 1997 in Oviedo, Spain, Álvaro Fidalgo Fernández is 1.75m tall and stands out for his vision of the game, precise passes, finishing ability and tactical intelligence. Spanish by birth, he opted for the Mexican national team after naturalization and has already accumulated recent call-ups, representing the mix of European experience with Aguirre’s project.
Fidalgo’s trajectory and moment
An idol in América, where he won multiple Liga MX titles between 2021 and 2026, Fidalgo transferred to Real Betis in February 2026 and quickly adapted to LaLiga. With good performance in the 2025/2026 season, including goals and consistent performances, he is experiencing the peak of his career. In the national team, his presence in the debut symbolizes the bet on naturalized talent to raise the technical level of the Mexican midfield.
Mexico enters as favorite in Group A, which also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic. With the support of more than 87 thousand fans at the legendary Azteca, the team needs a creative midfield to overcome the South African defense. Fidalgo will be essential to distribute the game, create chances and control the pace of the match.
Probable lineups
Mexico (4-3-3): Raúl Rangel; Jorge Sánchez (or Israel Reyes), César Montes, Johan Vásquez, Jesús Gallardo; Erik Lira,Álvaro Fidalgo(or Edson Álvarez), Roberto Alvarado; Brian Gutiérrez, Raúl Jiménez, Julián Quiñones.
South Africa (4-2-3-1): Ronwen Williams; Khuliso Mudau, Mothobi Mvala (or Okon), Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba; Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole; Themba Zwane, Elias Mokwana (or Oswin Appollis), Oswin Appollis; Lyle Foster.
Wilton Pereira Sampaio in arbitration
Brazilian Wilton Pereira Sampaio leads the match, with assistants Bruno Pires and Bruno Boschilia. It is the first time that a Brazilian referee has refereed the opening of a World Cup.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, transmission will be widespread. TV Globo and SBT show it live on open TV. SporTV, NSports and ge (Globoplay) cover closed TV and streaming. CazéTV, on YouTube, also broadcasts the game.
