by the El Reportero staff
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is officially underway, and Hispanic soccer fans have plenty to celebrate after Mexico opened the tournament with a convincing 2-0 victory over South Africa at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11. Julián Quiñones scored the first goal of the tournament in the ninth minute, while veteran striker Raúl Jiménez added a second-half header to secure the win before a packed stadium and a global television audience.
The match was intense from start to finish, featuring three red cards. South Africa finished with nine players after two expulsions, while Mexico defender César Montes was sent off during stoppage time. The victory places El Tri atop Group A as they prepare for their next match against South Korea.
Before kickoff, Mexico City hosted one of the most spectacular opening ceremonies in World Cup history. The event showcased Mexican culture through colorful papel picado, traditional dancers, fireworks, and performances by some of the biggest names in Latin music. Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy performed the official World Cup anthem “Dai Dai,” while Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, J Balvin, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, and Tyla also took the stage.
The 2026 tournament is the largest ever, featuring 48 national teams competing across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. FIFA has introduced three separate opening ceremonies—one in each host nation—highlighting the diversity and cultural richness of North America.
For Hispanic fans, the spotlight remains on Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay, Ecuador, and other Latin American powers hoping to challenge defending champions and European favorites. Early attention is also focused on veterans Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who may be appearing in their final World Cups.
With more than a month of matches still ahead, the World Cup has already delivered unforgettable moments. Mexico’s opening victory and the electrifying celebration at Azteca have given Hispanic soccer fans around the world a dream start to football’s biggest event.
With reports from FIFA, Reuters, The Guardian and other media sources.
