Mexico coach Javier Aguirre’s youth gamble sparks a victory in the World Cup’s opening match

Mexico hosted the opening ceremony yesterday and then beat South Africa, 2-0, in front of an electric home crowd.

NEW YORK — The United States will open its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on Friday against Paraguay in Group D, with the co-hosts entering as clear favorites in a match that carries significant weight for advancement in the expanded 48-team tournament.

Mexico battled it out with South Africa in the opening game, Canada faces Bosnia and Herzegovina, and now USA meets Paraguay in Group D. Australia and Turkey are the other sides competing in this group.

From a team that was widely mocked to one of the most feared in South America, La Albirroja have made the continent tremble – and should pose problems for Australia, the US and Turkey.