Salma Hayek, Shakira and J Balvin helped launch the 2026 World Cup at Estadio Azteca on June 11, as Mexico began with a 2-0 win over South Africa. On June 12, Bosnia and Herzegovina plays Canada in Toronto and the United States faces Paraguay at SoFi Stadium i
The night the 2026 World Cup began in Mexico City, the spotlight didn’t just fall on the pitch. It spilled into the ceremony at Estadio Azteca. where Salma Hayek—an ambassador for the tournament—stood in front of the flags of the 48 qualified nations and welcomed the world in Spanish before the opening match.
“Together with Canada and the United States. we welcome the entire world as we receive the flags of the 48 nations that have qualified for the FIFA World Cup Mexico 2026. ” she said on June 11. “We are deeply honored that the opening match of this wonderful football tradition — which unites us all and lives on in Mexico and in the spirit of the game — is taking place here.” She closed with. “Viva México y viva Fútbol.”.
Music and global star power followed immediately. Shakira performed the tournament’s official song, “Dai Dai,” alongside Burna Boy. Wearing a neon yellow bodysuit and sunglasses with dozens of dancers. Shakira matched the choreography with Burna Boy in a denim outfit. After the performance. the Colombian pop star posted on Instagram to push for “peace. joy and unity around the world. ” urging attention to “little champions” waiting for opportunities “such as education.” “We are ready!” she wrote.
J Balvin added more rhythm to the night. gifting the crowd a medley of his hits. including 2018’s “Que Calor.” He later brought Castro on stage for a duet of their new track. “Una A La Vez.” Tyla delivered a rendition of the South African national anthem. and Alejandro Fernández sang the Mexican national anthem.
Then the tournament delivered what fans came for: goals in the opener. Mexico kicked off World Cup play on its turf with a 2-0 win over South Africa.
Julian Quinones gave Mexico an early lead nine minutes in. finishing past South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams from just outside the box. Mexico held that lead through the match. In the second half. Brian Gutierrez sprinted free toward goal. only to be taken down by South Africa’s Sphephelo Sithole. who was shown a red card.
Raúl Jiménez sealed the result in the 67th minute, nodding in a cross from Roberto Alvarado to make it 2-0.
The next round of matches comes fast. On Friday, June 12, Bosnia and Herzegovina will face Canada in that country at Toronto Stadium, while the United States plays Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, where Katy Perry, Anitta, Future, Lisa and Rema are slated to perform.
2026 World Cup Mexico vs South Africa Salma Hayek Shakira J Balvin Dai Dai Katy Perry SoFi Stadium United States Paraguay Brian Gutierrez Raúl Jiménez Julian Quinones