IBNS-CMEDIA: The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicked off in a spectacular fashion at the Estadio Azteca stadium on Thursday, with a glittering opening ceremony as hosts Mexico take on South Africa in the tournament opener.
Shakira & Burna Boy headline musical extravaganza
Global icons Shakira and Burna Boy headlined the ceremony, performing the official World Cup anthem “Dai Dai”.
El poder escénico de @shakira no tiene nombre.
¡Se lució! pic.twitter.com/CqOBQLlwqg— Juan Diego Riaño Garzón (@JuanDiegoRiano) June 11, 2026
The star-studded lineup also included Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná, and Tyla, making it one of the most ambitious opening shows in World Cup history.
Mexico vs South Africa kick-off tournament action
Following the ceremony, Mexico face South Africa in a high-profile rematch of the 2010 World Cup opener in Johannesburg.
The encounter is a repeat of the 2010 World Cup opener, when South Africa hosted the tournament.
Mexico enter as a potential dark horse, boosted by home advantage and strong expectations, while South Africa are targeting a historic breakthrough as they aim for their first-ever qualification into the knockout stage.
Global opening festivities across host nations
The opening celebrations are not limited to Mexico. Co-hosts the United States and Canada will stage their own ceremonies ahead of matches scheduled for June 12, as the expanded 2026 tournament begins across North America.
With global superstars, historic rivalries, and a packed football calendar ahead, the World Cup opener sets the tone for a month-long sporting spectacle.
