The FIFA World Cup Opening Game Was Filled With Stars

It's World Cup time! On Thursday, June 11, the long-awaited 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off in Mexico City, with Mexico's national team facing off against South Africa at Estadio Ciudad de México—and scoring a big 2-0 win!

It was a historic game, as the 2010 tournament launched with a match between the same two teams, also on June 11.

Apart from the explosive energy that came from the players, another big moment took place on the soccer field, when performers Shakira, Maná, J Balvin, Andrea Bocelli, Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Danny Ocean, and Tyla popped out to deliver electric performances. (Even Salma Hayek made a surprise appearance.)

This year's World Cup is the largest ever, with 48 teams instead of the usual 32 involved, and a record 104 matches set to be played. It is also the first one to be hosted by three countries: Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Games are being held in 16 host cities across North America.

There's also a bit of poetry to the situation, as Rafael Márquez, one of Mexico's greatest players who captained Mexico at five World Cups (2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018), is serving as an assistant coach for Mexico's national team, working alongside head coach Javier Aguirre. (Márquez has been part of the coaching staff since 2024.)

Speaking of iconic players, both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are expected to play in what will be their sixth World Cup—a record achievement.

Over the course of the tournament—which will wrap on July 19 in New Jersey—several nations are making their debut, including Uzbekistan, Jordan, and Cape Verde. Argentina won the tournament in 2022, but time will tell who will come out on top this time around.

While many of us will be tuning into the games from sports bars and watch parties, some brave fans will venture to the busy venues, and you bet the VIP suites will be star-studded.

Ahead, see every celebrity who attended the 2026 World Cup opening game in CDMX.

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