MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico made an immediate impression on the largest World Cup in history, giving the roaring home crowd at the iconic Azteca Stadium a huge jolt of excitement four years after a major disappointment.

Mexico's big day finally arrived and El Tri put on a show for the home fans.

Will Mexico repeat an unfortunate part of its World Cup history against South Africa on Thursday?

Raúl Jiménez finally has his star moment in a FIFA World Cup for Mexico, with his manager Javier Aguirre calling it a "perfect day" for the 35-year-old striker.

No,” Picasso snapped, “you did.” To understand Mexico national team coach Javier Aguirre, the fighter, the survivor, the dreamer, the savior, the man known to friends and foes alike as “El Vasco” – the Basque – you have to start in Guernica.

Mexico and Canada have faced significant recent tension in their relations with the United States. But in their historic World Cup bid, the three countries promoted teamwork.

Canada's FIFA World Cup 2026 party begins on Friday afternoon in Toronto, as they host Bosnia & Herzegovina in their opening Group B game -- a pivotal clash for both sides' chances of making it through to the knockout stages.

Thousands are using the World Cup event in Mexico City to protest what they are calling corruption in the Mexican government. Special to USA TODAY.