India, June 11 -- The stage is set for a rematch of the 2010 World Cup opener, with Mexico and South Africa once again kicking off the football extravaganza after 16 years. The excitement is more this time, as 48 teams, instead of 32, will be competing for the mega prize in the month-long tournament. The FIFA World Cup 2026 curtain raiser featuring Mexico and South Africa will be held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Thursday, June 11. Eyes will be on the hosts' goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa, who is set to make his record sixth appearance in the World Cup.

Placed in Group A, both teams will be motivated to open the campaign on a positive note. Neither Mexico nor South Africa has ever lifted the coveted World Cup trophy, and will be ...