2026 Fifa World Cup | Group of death or group of opportunity? The fine margins awaiting Group A

From continental success to the global stage, Teboho Mokoena is ready to dictate the tempo and control the big moments at the FIFA World Cup. Photo: Backpagepix

Group A will open the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa (kick-off 9pm) and is widely regarded as one of the tougher pools in the tournament. El Tri, Bafana Bafana, South Korea and the Czech Republic all arrive with realistic ambitions of reaching the knockout stages, with fine margins expected to decide qualification.

Here, Smiso Msomi dissects the group.

Fifa World Cup 2026 Group A.

Mexico enter the tournament as co-hosts and favourites to win Group A. The pressure of playing at home, particularly in the iconic Estadio Azteca, adds both advantage and expectation. Their technical quality, possession-based style and attacking depth make them the team to beat. However, handling pressure in front of a demanding home crowd remains a key test.