Mexico Hosts World Cup Opener as US Gains Defender, Canada Adjusts Squad

Mexico will host the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against South Africa on Thursday night. The United States have added defender Chris Richards to their squad ahead of their Group D opener. Canada have replaced injured Marcelo Flores with forward Jayden Nelson for their Group B debut. Mexico City fans are counting down to the match amid a deepening political crisis. President Claudia Sheinbaum’s opposition has prompted authorities to declare a non‑school day for the three match days. Spectators are urged to arrive three hours before kick‑off as up to seven demonstrations may occur around the stadium. Chris Richards, a 26‑year‑old Crystal Palace defender, returned to full training on Tuesday after missing the United States’ two warm‑up games. He missed those fixtures due to a fitness setback on May 17 and was doubted for the tournament after the UEFA Conference League final. Mauricio Pochettino now has Auston Trusty, Miles Robinson and Tim Ream as additional centre‑back options. Marcelo Flores, an Arsenal academy graduate playing for Tigres UANL, was ruled out with injury on the eve of Canada’s Group B opener. Jesse Marsch brought in Austin FC forward Jayden Nelson, who has scored two goals in ten MLS appearances and featured in Canada’s 2‑0 friendly win over Uzbekistan. Moise Bombito of OGC Nice remains under daily medical monitoring after limping off in the same friendly. FIFA and UEFA have jointly condemned excessive added time, a problem highlighted by recent Premier League matches. The 2024/25 Premier League season recorded an average of 56 minutes and 59 seconds of ball‑in‑play per game, contributing to double‑digit added time on official boards. The United States will face Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Group D, while Canada travel to face Bosnia & Herzegovina in Group B. Both co‑hosts aim to start the inaugural 48‑team tournament strongly.