It is a wet day in the garden city of Port Harcourt but all roads lead to Mexico City – venue of the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It is Mexico vs South Africa.

48 countries have converged amidst all the challenges and obstacles in organising the biggest football competition in the universe. Hosted by the trio of Mexico, Canada and the US, there have entry challenges for some fans, players and officials – yes, match officials too.

UEFA recently announced that the 2026 Super Cup will be officiate by Somali Referee Omar Artan. He was denied entry to the US and thus his dream of officiating at the World Cup is on hold till 2030.

Back to the beautiful country of Mexico, the host nation would take on 2010 hosts South Africa at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

Ranked 14th in the World, Mexico should get all three points from their African opposition who are ranked 60 by FIFA. Korea Republic and Czezh Republic are the other teams in Group A. They play by 3:00am WAT at Guadalajara.

The top two teams in each of the 12 groups would progress to the knockout phase. 8 more teams will join them as the best 3rd place teams. Thereafter, it is knockout till the final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey/New York.

Premier League fans will be watch Jimenez for Mexico. There is a Nigerian in the heart of the Bafana Bafana back four. Will that be enough for them to receive support from Nigerians and fellow Africans? News from South Africa are not so good. Irrespective of the support they may (not) receive, South Africa have 90 minutes to make themselves and Africa proud.

Did you know that South Africa vs Mexico was the opening match of the 2010 World Cup?

May the best team win. Let’s enjoy the opening ceremony.