- Jun 12
Mexico and South Korea win Group A openers as World Cup kickoff is marked by protests and historic red cards
The 2026 FIFA World Cup opened with Mexico beating South Africa 2-0 and South Korea rallying past Czech Republic 2-1, while protests outside Estadio Azteca and three red cards brought a turbulent start to the tournament.
- May 31
Visa chaos grounds South Africa's World Cup squad 11 days before opening match against Mexico
South Africa's national football team failed to depart for the 2026 World Cup on Sunday after at least 20 players and officials were left without valid visas, triggering fury from the country's sports minister just 11 days before they face co-hosts Mexico in the tournament opener.