TAs the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws near, expectations and excitement for the opening match continue to rise. There are only a few days left, just under two months until the tournament starts. Mexico’s national soccer team opens its season at home against South Africa on June 11, and every step in the run-up to the tournament is already starting to make sense.
The most recent reference point in that preparation was last Saturday, March 28, when Mexico played a goalless draw with Portugal at the Estadio Banorte. Beyond the result, this match left mixed impressions. Although there were moments of attacking intent, they lacked precision and were booed by their home fans at various stages of the match.
Mexico still has work to do before 2026
But the preparations are not over yet
The context does not indicate an end, but rather a continuation. Today, Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the team will return to action and take on Belgium at Soldier Field in Chicago. This game not only closes out the month, but also serves as a direct test to gauge coordination and reactions on the field.
Preparations will continue over the next few weeks, with games scheduled including the match against Ghana on May 22nd at the Estadio Cuoutomoc in Puebla, Mexico.
The game is getting closer and closer
As the calendar progresses, the focus inevitably shifts to June when Mexico takes center stage, a situation in which expectations are high and every decision is part of a preparation that must be in place right from the start of the tournament.
The opponent is also not familiar with the situation. Mexico and South Africa have faced each other four times, the most memorable being a 1-1 draw in the opening game of the 2010 World Cup. This result is a reminder of what it means to start a World Cup with the utmost attention.
Today, the demands are different. If Mexico wants to move beyond mere participation, it needs to build clear structures, maintain coherence, and arrive with a clear identity.
