Mexico

Mexico are one of the great World Cup nations by presence, passion and culture. El Tri have been part of the tournament story since the early editions and are now preparing to host World Cup matches for a third time, after previously staging the tournament in 1970 and 1986. Few countries connect with the World Cup quite like Mexico — from the noise in the stadiums to the colour in the stands, this is a nation that turns football into a national event.

Their best World Cup runs came on home soil, reaching the quarter-finals in both 1970 and 1986. That is the benchmark Mexico will be desperate to attack in 2026. For years, the country has been haunted by the challenge of breaking beyond the last-16 ceiling, but this tournament gives them something different: home advantage, familiar conditions and a support base that will make every Mexico match feel enormous.

Mexico open the 2026 World Cup against South Africa, then face Korea Republic, before finishing Group A against Czechia. It is a group with danger, but also opportunity. If El Tri handle the emotion of being hosts, Group A gives them a real platform to build momentum.

South Africa are Mexico's opening opponents and bring a brilliant World Cup storyline of their own. This fixture also carries history, with Mexico and South Africa having opened the 2010 World Cup against each other. For Mexico, starting well matters massively — a poor opening result would turn home pressure into tension very quickly.

Korea Republic are fast, disciplined and tournament-experienced. They have the speed and work rate to make life uncomfortable for Mexico, especially if El Tri leave space in transition. This could be one of the key tactical battles in Group A.

Czechia are Mexico's final group opponents. Organised, physical and dangerous through players such as Patrik Schick, Czechia are exactly the type of side that can punish mistakes. If Group A is tight, Mexico against Czechia could become a proper pressure match.

Green, white and red — one of the most recognisable national-team looks in football. Mexico's home shirt is traditionally green, carrying the colours of the Mexican flag and the identity of El Tri. It is a shirt that instantly stands out at a World Cup, especially when surrounded by packed stands, flags, noise and the full force of Mexican support.

Mexico shirts are also loved by collectors because they often mix national pride with bold design. From classic green home kits to memorable away shirts inspired by Mexican culture, El Tri kits regularly feel bigger than just football shirts — they feel like national statements. For a mystery shirt pull, Mexico is one of the strongest countries to get: recognisable, colourful, passionate and full of World Cup energy.