Roberto Alvarado should be a starter in Mexico’s offensive sector in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 27-year-old striker/midfielder, from Guadalajara, is one of Javier Aguirre’s main creative pieces 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 September 7, 1998 in Salamanca, Guanajuato, Roberto Carlos Alvarado Hernández is 1.76m tall and stands out for his speed, dribbling, left-handed finishing and ability to play on the flanks or as an attacking midfielder. With more than 65 caps for the Mexican national team, he arrives at the World Cup at home in great form with Chivas.
Alvarado’s trajectory and moment
Developed by Pachuca, with spells at Necaxa and Cruz Azul, Alvarado has established himself at Guadalajara since 2022, where he is an important player with regular goals and assists in Liga MX. In the 2025/2026 season, he maintained a high level, contributing with direct participation in goals. In the national team, his versatility and experience in previous World Cups make him essential for creating chances and exploring spaces on his debut.
Mexico enters as favorite in Group A, which also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic. With the support of more than 87,000 fans at the legendary Azteca, the team needs to get off to a good start in the expanded competition. Alvarado will be essential to unbalance the South African defense with speed and creativity on the sides.
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.
