Mexico City News: After major renovations, the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City is set to host the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. NBC News’ George Solis provides insights into this historic venue.
Advancing out of the Group Stage
The 2026 FIFA World Cup features the largest number of teams ever with 48 teams competing in the group stage. Only 32 will move forward to the knockout rounds. The top two teams from each of the 12 groups secure their spots in the round of 32. The remaining eight positions are filled by teams with the highest points.
Points are awarded as follows: 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw, and no points for a loss. Goal differences also play a role in the rankings. Ties are broken by goals scored, the number of accumulated cards, and the FIFA world rankings if necessary.
Mexico’s Teen Sensation Gilberto Mora
In past World Cup history, outstanding young talents have made significant impacts. In 1958, a 17-year-old Pelé led Brazil to victory. He scored crucial goals against Wales, France, and Sweden, earning Brazil their first World Cup title. Pelé’s success story shows that talent, even in young players, can influence the outcome of major tournaments.
Hoping for similar results, Mexico looks to Gilberto Mora, their own 17-year-old midfielder. Mora began training with Tijuana’s Liga MX team as a child. At 15, he debuted in Liga MX, becoming its youngest goal-scorer. At 16, he helped Mexico win the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, surpassing Pelé as the youngest to win an international trophy.
Mora, standing at 5-foot-6 and weighing 137 pounds, has proven himself as an effective attacking midfielder. His ambitions include winning trophies with Xolos and making a mark with the national team.
Argentina Tops FIFA Rankings Before World Cup
Argentina, reigning World Cup champions, now lead the FIFA/Coca-Cola Men’s World Rankings. This change comes after their victories in warm-up matches against Iceland and Honduras. France, the previous leaders, fell to third after a defeat by the Ivory Coast, while Spain maintains second place. Morocco achieved its highest ever seventh-place in the rankings. Despite their apparent lack of significance, these rankings can act as a decisive factor in tie-breaking situations during the group and initial knockout stages.
Ranking the World Cup Groups
With group draws finalized for the 2026 World Cup, opinions differ on the varying challenges each group presents. The host nations, including the USMNT, Mexico, and Canada, are generally satisfied with their placements. In contrast, teams like France, Brazil, and Norway may find their paths more challenging.
Festive Atmosphere Among Mexico Fans
Fans of the Mexican national team have gathered in Mexico City, adorned with national flags and dressed in traditional outfits such as sombreros and luchador masks. They arrived ready to support their team in the opening match against South Africa.
Key Players for Mexico
Mexico aims to improve on their previous World Cup performances, where they scored only two goals in group play. Standout players include Luis Chávez, who has shown potential with goals against Serbia and during the previous World Cup.
Chicago Fire supporters may recognize Brian Gutiérrez. He scored nine goals last season and is considered a significant scoring threat for Mexico. Johan Vásquez has also contributed with goals in friendly matches.
The experienced goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa returns for his fifth World Cup. He previously conceded just three goals in Qatar and has represented Mexico in 11 World Cup matches.
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