Mexico predicted XI vs South Africa for FIFA World Cup 2026 opener

The clash between these sides will take place at the Mexico City Stadium.

The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup is around the corner. Every participating country will be looking to give their all on the grand stage.

The Mexico national football team will battle it out against the South Africa national football team in what is going to be the opening clash of the flagship tournament this year. Mexico are one of the co-hosts of the World Cup. This will give them a slight edge.

Led by Javier Aguirre, El Tri will be pushing for a win in their first group stage fixture. Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana have a decent squad and are not going to go down without a fight. The team with a winning start will surely be boosted with confidence for their other two group stage outings.

Also Read: Top 10 Best Players to Watch During FIFA World Cup 2026 ft. Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo

What can be Mexico’s predicted lineup vs South Africa?

The Mexico national football team have top players who are fit to start for them in the opening FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture against South Africa. Javier Aguirre might be going for a classic 4-3-3 lineup.

Raúl Jiménez is likely to start ahead of AC Milan’s Santiago Gimenez as the striker. Julián Quiñones will most likely be on the left flank with Roberto Alvarado on the right wing.

Brian Gutierrez, Erik Lira and Edson Álvarez are going to be controlling the ball as a three-man midfield. The 17-year-old Gilberto Mora is likely to come in as a substitute.

Johan Vásquez and César Montes are going to be the main centre-backs under Javier Aguirre. Starting as the right-back can be Jorge Sánchez, and Jesús Gallardo might be the starting left-back.

Between the sticks, it is most likely going to be the reliable 26-year-old Raúl Rangel. Guillermo Ochoa has been included in the final lineup, but is not likely to start for El Tri.

Mexico’s predicted lineup (4-3-3)

Rangel (GK); Jorge Sánchez, César Montes, Johan Vásquez, Jesús Gallardo; Edson Álvarez, Erik Lira, Brian Gutierrez; Roberto Alvarado, Raul Jimenez, Julián Quiñones

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