The World Cup is finally here, and what better way to kick it off than with a montage that tugs at the heartstrings, followed by Gary Neville's intriguing fashion choice - a shirt that seems to have been plucked straight from a 1995 River Island catalogue.
What Happened
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between Mexico and South Africa, with the former looking to make a statement in front of their home crowd. As the teams take to the field, the atmosphere is electric, with the likes of Hirving Lozano and Alexis Vega ready to make their mark on the tournament. ITV's coverage has been slick so far, with their credits shot on film adding a touch of class to the proceedings.
The Bigger Picture
For Mexico, this World Cup represents a chance to banish the memories of their disappointing campaign in 2018. With a new generation of players emerging, they will be looking to make a deep run into the tournament. South Africa, on the other hand, will be seeking to cause an upset and prove that they are more than just a plucky underdog. The history between these two nations is limited, but with Mexico's passionate home support, this could be a real test of South Africa's mettle.
The Autopsy
Let's be honest, Gary Neville's shirt aside, the real talking point will be the performances on the pitch. If Mexico can get Lozano and Vega firing, they could be a real force to be reckoned with. However, South Africa's defensive solidity could cause problems for the hosts. One thing is for sure, the referee will have their work cut out to keep up with the pace of this encounter. And as for Neville's fashion sense, well, let's just say it's a good job he's better at punditry than he is at dressing himself.
What Happens Next
Prediction time: Mexico will edge this one 2-1, with Lozano scoring a stunning individual goal to seal the win. But don't count out South Africa just yet, they could still cause a major upset and set the tone for a thrilling tournament. As the dust settles on this opening match, one thing is certain - the 2026 World Cup is going to be a wild ride, and we're all just along for the ride, cringing at Neville's shirt choices.