Group A of the World Cup 2026 kicks off with co‑hosts Mexico facing South Africa at Mexico City Stadium on June 11. The fixture mirrors the opening match of the 2010 tournament, setting the tone for a group that also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic. All games run on BST, with kick‑offs ranging from 8 pm to 2 am. Fans anticipate a high‑energy showdown.

Mexico’s 27‑player squad blends experience and youth, featuring veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa and striker Raúl Jiménez of Fulham, while midfielder Luis Romo anchors the middle. South Africa, managed by Hugo Broos, fields a mix of Premier League talent such as forward Lyle Foster and several MLS regulars. South Korea brings Heung‑Min Son and PSG midfielder Kang‑In Lee, hoping to spark a surprise. Both sides will rely on set‑piece efficiency.

The group’s schedule sees each team play three matches, with the final round on June 25 deciding the two qualifiers. A supercomputer model released by Sky Sports predicts Mexico and South Korea have the best odds, but the tightly packed fixtures and travel across two continents could fuel upsets. Standings will hinge on goal difference and head‑to‑head results. Early points will prove decisive in this pool.