Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE wait is over.
The largest FIFA World Cup in history gets underway Thursday night, with hosts Mexico and South Africa renewing a rivalry that first captivated the football world 16 years ago when they opened the 2010 tournament in Johannesburg.
More than a billion eyes are expected to turn towards the legendary Azteca Stadium as the curtain rises on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the start of a month-long celebration of football featuring the world’s biggest stars, emerging talents and ambitious underdogs.
The opening fixture carries a rich sense of déjà vu.
In 2010, South Africa’s Siphiwe Tshabalala etched his name into World Cup folklore with a thunderous strike that sent Soccer City into delirium before Bafana Bafana settled for a memorable 1-1 draw against Mexico in the tournament opener.
Now, a new generation takes centre stage as South Africa and Mexico once again launch football’s greatest showpiece.
The tournament arrives with no shortage of star power.
France captain Kylian Mbappé, England skipper Harry Kane and Spain’s teenage phenomenon Lamine Yamal headline a glittering cast expected to dominate the global spotlight. Defending champions Argentina return determined to retain their crown, while Brazil seek a record-extending sixth world title.
Spain, France, Argentina, Brazil, Portugal and England enter the competition among the leading favourites, each boasting squads packed with elite talent and championship pedigree.
Yet beyond the traditional powerhouses, attention is increasingly turning towards Africa.
The continent enters the tournament carrying greater belief than ever before following Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals in Qatar, a feat that shattered long-standing barriers and demonstrated that African teams can compete with the very best on football’s grandest stage.
The Atlas Lions return with a squad filled with players competing at the highest level in European football and will be aiming to push even deeper into the tournament.
Senegal also arrives as one of Africa’s strongest contenders, armed with a blend of experience, athleticism and tactical organisation capable of troubling any opponent.
African champions Côte d’Ivoire bring youthful energy and attacking flair, qualities that could make them one of the tournament’s most dangerous dark horses.
For South Africa, meanwhile, the honour of opening the competition offers a fresh opportunity to inspire a continent still dreaming of witnessing the first African nation lift football’s ultimate prize.
As the countdown reaches its final moments, anticipation is building across the globe.
The stage is set, the stars are ready, and the world is preparing for four weeks of drama, heartbreak, triumph and unforgettable memories as the race for the most coveted trophy in sport finally begins.
