The 2026 World Cup will begin at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium with a match between Mexico and South Africa. This opening game revisits a previous World Cup encounter between the two nations, as they also played the opening match of the 2010 tournament. The Azteca Stadium holds immense historical significance, having hosted legendary moments such as Pelé’s 1970 World Cup victory and Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” goal. Notably, the match also presents a unique coaching rivalry; the opposing managers previously competed against each other as players at the same stadium four decades prior. The selection of this match aims to honor the stadium’s legacy and the rich history of the World Cup. This opening ceremony will be a symbolic return to a venue deeply ingrained in football folklore.