A thunderous triumph at the Azteca offers respite on Mexico City’s streets
As El Tri eased past South Africa, fans got a fleeting escape from the tensions gripping the capital
Pochettino preaches relaxation as USMNT’s 2026 World Cup debut looms
The US coach confirmed that all 26 players are available for selection, but said no rousing pregame speech is planned ahead of Friday’s World Cup opener
Jesse Marsch says he had to ‘beg’ US players to sing anthem as he talks up Canada’s pride
Canada coach said his players will embrace the pressure of a World Cup debut at home against Bosnia and Herzegovina
Socceroos video sends a pointed message on migration: ‘We’re a reflection of modern Australia’
The Socceroos have spoken of their pride in their heritage and playing for the national team, as they prepare for the World Cup
Petrol bombs and bricks hurled at Mexican police during pre-match unrest at Azteca
A group of ticketless fans tried to charge the gate of the stadium and threw missiles at officers
ITV delivers feisty start to World Cup coverage – and taunts BBC from glitzy studio
Mark Pougatch acknowledged the controversies surrounding the tournament, while capturing the excitement of football fans
Infantino’s rebrand and long haul games: five takeaways from World Cup opener
Mexico City played host to this year’s first game as an emotionally charged Azteca witnessed Shakira’s big return
Mexico 2-0 South Africa: World Cup 2026 opening match – as it happened
Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez scored for Mexico against South Africa, who had Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane sent off; the hosts had César Montes dismissed
Raúl Jiménez seals Mexico’s win against nine-man South Africa in World Cup opener
Julián Quiñones was also on target with a ninth-minute opener in Mexico’s 2-0 win against South Africa, who had Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane sent off
Iran’s World Cup camp in Tijuana unfolds under armed guard and political shadow
Iran’s World Cup preparations have moved to Tijuana, where armed security, exile politics and improvised logistics surround Team Melli
McTominay should be fit for Scotland’s World Cup opener despite stomach bug
Scott McTominay has missed Scotland’s final training session as a precaution before their opening Group C game against Haiti
Real Madrid confirm José Mourinho’s return as manager after 13 years away
The 63-year-old has left Benfica to move back to the Bernabéu, succeeding interim head coach Álvaro Arbeloa after chaotic season at Real Madrid.
Elliot Anderson on the rise as face of England amid Manchester City transfer talk
Midfielder’s meteoric climb could enter different stratosphere if he inspires World Cup glory and seals record move
‘They are adults’: Tuchel grants England players day off with few strings attached
The manager said he trusts his players to behave responsibly and said they were all very determined
World Cup 2026: countdown to kick-off in Mexico, Somali referee to officiate Uefa Super Cup – as it happened
Thursday’s latest news before the World Cup opener between Mexico and South Africa