The 2026 World Cup kicked off in spectacular fashion at Mexico City Stadium, with a dazzling opening ceremony featuring Shakira and Burna Boy before Mexico’s national team, El Tri, cruised to a comfortable win over South Africa.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
Fireworks lit up the sky as the ceremony began, setting the stage for a night of celebration. Mexican fans streamed toward the stadium in high spirits, many wearing traditional dress and representing all ages. Performers took to the field, with J Balvin among the artists entertaining the crowd. Shakira, known as the Queen of the World Cup for her frequent appearances at tournaments over the past 20 years, debuted her new single ‘Dai Dai’ alongside rapper Burna Boy. At the Central de Abasto wholesale market in Mexico City, vendors paused to watch the ceremony on screens. Andrea Bocelli and Ejae performed ‘DNA’, the official FIFA World Cup anthem. FIFA President Gianni Infantino held the World Cup trophy alongside actress Salma Hayek as fans snapped photos.
The Match Begins
With the festivities over, attention turned to football. Mexico’s players waited in the tunnel before taking the pitch, where they sang the national anthem alongside fans watching at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. Just nine minutes into the match, Julián Quiñones capitalized on a South African error to fire past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, giving Mexico an early lead. Quiñones celebrated as fans at the LA Memorial Coliseum erupted in joy.
Second Half Drama
South Africa’s troubles deepened early in the second half when Yaya Sithole fouled Brian Gutiérrez and received a red card. Shortly after the hour mark, Raúl Jiménez headed home from close range to double Mexico’s lead, scoring his first World Cup goal in ecstatic fashion. With five minutes remaining, referee Wilton Sampaio showed a second red card to South Africa after Themba Zwane slapped Roberto Alvarado’s head. In injury time, Mexico’s César Montes fouled Khuliso Mudau, leading to another red card for Mexico. Despite the late dismissal, Mexico held on for victory and celebrated with their fans.
