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Mexico City dazzles as 2026 World Cup kicks off in style

Mexico City dazzles as 2026 World Cup kicks off in style

Summary

The 2026 World Cup started with a big celebration at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium. Mexico played South Africa in the first match of the expanded tournament, which is shared between Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

Key Facts

  • The opening event featured fireworks, lights, and performances by Shakira, Burna Boy, and J Balvin.
  • More than 80,000 fans attended the match at the renovated Azteca Stadium.
  • The stadium has hosted the World Cup opening game three times (1970, 1986, and 2026), a first in the tournament’s history.
  • Mexico City Stadium is the new official name, but it is still commonly called Azteca.
  • The 2026 World Cup has 48 teams, an increase from previous tournaments.
  • Protests happened near fan zones and transport routes, with people concerned about the event’s cost and local disruptions.
  • Police increased security around working-class neighborhoods close to the stadium to manage crowds and protests.
  • Mexico City is hosting World Cup games alongside the United States and Canada during this month-long event.
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