Opening game of the 2026 World Cup
Here you can watch Mexico vs South Africa live on TV
June 4, 2026 – 4:47 p.mReading time: 2 minutes
The 2026 Football World Cup begins with the duel between Mexico and South Africa. Here’s how you can watch the opening game live.
When the kick-off sounds in Mexico City, the 2026 World Cup will officially begin: co-hosts Mexico will face South Africa in the opening game. It is the first tournament to start in Mexico since 1986 – although the reigning world champions Italy opened the tournament back then. Since the 2006 World Cup, it has been tradition for a host to play the first game.
It is a special return to the big stage for South Africa. The Africans have qualified for the first time since the 2010 World Cup and, like 16 years ago, will face Mexico in the opening game. At that time both teams drew 1-1.
The game will take place at the Mexico City Stadium (also known as the Aztec Stadium). The arena offers space for around 83,000 spectators and is one of the most traditional stadiums in football history. As hosts, Mexico is going into the tournament with a lot of tailwind and wants to make a statement in front of their home crowd. South Africa, on the other hand, is more likely to compete as an outsider.
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Where will Mexico vs South Africa be broadcast?
The opening game of the 2026 World Cup between Mexico and South Africa will be broadcast on ZDF on Thursday, June 11th. Kick-off takes place at 9 p.m. German time.
MagentaTV also shows the game live on TV and in the stream. However, a paid subscription is required for this.
Is there also a live ticker for the opening game?
Yes, t-online offers a ticker for all games in the 2026 World Cup. Here you can access the live ticker overview.
Further information about the duel can be found on t-online on the match day itself.