Raúl Jiménez should be the starter in charge of Mexico’s attack in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 35-year-old center forward, from Wolverhampton Wanderers, is Javier Aguirre’s offensive reference 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 May 5, 1991 in Tepeji del Río de Ocampo, Hidalgo, Raúl Alonso Jiménez Rodríguez is 1.88m tall and stands out for his physical presence, heading, finishing and experience in big games. Third top scorer in the history of the Mexican national team, with more than 45 goals in more than 120 calls, he arrives at the World Cup at home as one of the leaders of the squad.
Jiménez’s trajectory and moment
With remarkable spells at América, Benfica, Wolverhampton and Fulham, Jiménez recently returned to Wolves and maintains a high level even at the age of 35. In the 2025/2026 season, he contributed with important goals in the Premier League and in national team competitions, including the Gold Cup. A participant in the 2014, 2018 and 2022 World Cups, this is his fourth appearance in the World Cup, and the chance to shine in front of the Mexican fans at Azteca motivates the veteran.
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 stadium, the team needs to get off to a good start in the expanded competition. Jiménez will be essential for holding the ball, opening spaces and converting the chances created by the midfield.
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 Gutierrez,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.
