Mexico hosts South Africa this Thursday (11) at the Azteca Stadium in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Group A clash starts at 4pm (Brasília time) and has complete minute-by-minute coverage on several platforms.
Javier Aguirre must maintain the base that has been working in recent commitments. The Mexican team enters with starting strength to take advantage of the home advantage, the altitude and the support of the fans. On the other side, Hugo Broos arms Bafana Bafana with tactical discipline to try to neutralize the home team’s momentum.
Probable lineups
Mexico (4-1-2-3):R. Rangel; I. Reyes, C. Montes, J. Vásquez, J. Gallardo; E. Lira; B. Gutiérrez, Á. Nobleman; R. Alvarado, R. Jiménez, J. Quiñones.
South Africa (4-2-3-1):R. Williams; K. Mudau, I. Okon, M. Mbokazi, A. Modiba; J. Adams, T. Mokoena; O. Appollis, R. Mofokeng, T. Moremi; L. Foster.
These formations highlight Mexico’s defensive balance with speed in attack, while the South Africans rely on counterattacks and the experience of players like Mokoena and Foster. Final lineups must be confirmed about an hour before the ball rolls.
Live minute by minute
Fans can follow all the moves in real time with constant updates on the score, statistics, ball possession, shots and key plays. ge.globo offers the best experience with detailed real-time, goal videos and exclusive commentary. Other options include the FIFA website, Sofascore and broadcaster apps.
Where to watch Mexico vs South Africa live
- open TV: TV Globo and SBT
- Pay TV: SporTV and NSports
- Streaming: ge TV (Globoplay), Globoplay, CazéTV (YouTube)
Coverage starts well before the game, with pre-game and analysis, and continues with replays and highlights after the final whistle. CazéTV promises a complete broadcast with animated narration and interaction with the public.
The duel has a historical flavor: it is a reunion 16 years after the opening game of the 2010 World Cup, when the teams drew 1-1. Now, Mexico plays at home and is the favorite, but South Africa is looking to surprise in its debut. The result could set the tone for Group A, which also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic.