The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially commenced in Mexico, featuring an opening ceremony performance by Shakira. According to team reports, Mexico’s starting lineup for the opening match includes striker Raúl Jiménez, while veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa will not start the game.
-
Match Facts
- Opening Performer: Shakira
- Key Starter: Raúl Jiménez
- Notable Absence from Starting XI: Guillermo Ochoa
- Bench Status: Two top-league Mexican players listed as substitutes
Mexico’s Starting Lineup and Tactical Shifts
The starting eleven for Mexico’s opening fixture reveals a mix of veteran presence and unexpected omissions. According to Nemzeti Sport, Raúl Jiménez has been named to the starting squad. In a significant tactical decision, Guillermo Ochoa is not starting the match.
The report further notes that two Mexican players currently competing in top-tier leagues have been relegated to the bench for the start of the tournament.
Ceremony and Historical Context
The tournament’s launch in Mexico included a performance by Shakira, according to Telex. This iteration of the World Cup follows a 16-year gap since the 2010 tournament, an interval that hvg.hu reports will make this event fundamentally different from the previous experience.

Market Impact of the Tournament Launch
The start of the World Cup has also triggered financial analysis outside of the pitch. According to Portfolio.hu, professional financial analysts have identified and recommended specific stocks for investors to purchase in coordination with the tournament’s beginning.