MEXICO CITY — The 2026 FIFA World Cup opened with strong showings from the three host nations, as Mexico, Canada and the United States recorded positive results in their opening group-stage matches this week.
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the tournament's first match on Thursday at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, according to FIFA. South Korea beat Czechia 2-1 in the other Group A fixture that day in Zapopan, Mexico.
Canada drew 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina on Friday in Toronto, while the United States defeated Paraguay 4-1 the same day in Inglewood, California, FIFA said.
The expanded 48-team tournament, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, features matches across 16 cities in the three countries through July 19. It is the first World Cup hosted by three nations and the first with 48 participating teams.
FIFA reported three separate opening ceremonies, one in each host country. The Mexican ceremony took place ahead of the opening match in Mexico City, followed by events in Toronto and Los Angeles on Friday.
"Football is a universal language that brings people together," FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a statement released by the organization during the opening events. Details of additional quotes from players or officials were not immediately available.
The co-hosts were pre-assigned to different groups for scheduling purposes: Mexico in Group A, Canada in Group B and the United States in Group D.
Mexico's victory came in a repeat of the 2010 tournament opener matchup. The United States' win provided an early boost for the home fans at SoFi Stadium. Canada's draw marked their first World Cup match on home soil.
Early matches have drawn large crowds, though some reports noted concerns over ticket prices and attendance in certain venues. FIFA has not released comprehensive attendance figures for the opening fixtures.
The tournament continues with additional group-stage matches in the coming days across the host cities. Standings and further results will be updated as play progresses.
