Two matches valid for Group A open the 2026 World Cup this Thursday (11). The first will be played between Mexico and South Africa, at 4pm, at the Azteca Stadium, in Mexico City. The second match will be at 11pm, between South Korea and the Czech Republic. The game will be at the Akron Stadium, in Guadalajara – also in Mexico. Related news: Brasileirão has a record number of players called up for a World Cup. Haiti changes shirts for the World Cup after FIFA's objection. The African continent takes 10 teams to the 2026 World Cup. Of the four teams that make up Group A, the favorite is Mexico, due to playing the matches at home. Different schools Mexico, South Africa, South Korea and the Czech Republic have their own game characteristics, making the Group A clashes a true competition between football schools. The Mexican team tends to value possession of the ball. The expectation is that they will play in a more intense and advanced manner, as they will play with the support of the fans. South Africa has a physical and fast football, with quick transitions, plays on the sides of the field and a lot of marking. South Korea is known for its tactical discipline and speed. He usually plays with strong pressing and quick counterattacks. The Czech Republic follows the European school pattern. It is defensively organized and presents a more direct game that values ​​physical strength, crosses and set pieces.