Mexico: FIFA World Cup 2026 kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony on Thursday at the historic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. FIFA World Cup 2026 was a feast for the eyes.

Colombian pop star Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy sang the tournament’s official song Dayi Dayi to a roaring crowd. Along with them, famous artists like J Balvin and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli also entertained with their performances. Their performance sent the 80,000-strong stadium into frenzy. The event was rounded off with a huge World Cup trophy model, danced by artists, and set off colourful fireworks. This stadium, which hosted the 1970 and 1986 World Cup finals, was specially modernized for this tournament.

In the first match hosts Mexico got off to a flying start in the tournament with a 2-0 win over South Africa in the opening match. Along with Mexico this group also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic.

There was chaos at the official fan zone in the center of Mexico City, while there was a festive atmosphere inside the stadium. Thousands of fans tried to enter the fan zone and a riot broke out. The situation was caused by metal barricades set up due to teachers’ protests. Fans threw water bottles at the police and chanted slogans in support of the Mexican team. The local Government has suggested on social media that the fan zone is full and that they should move to other areas.

FIFA World Cup 2026 is jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico by A total of 104 matches will be played in this 48-team tournament. This mega tournament will end with the final match in New Jersey on July 19^th.