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“The opening match of the year’s World Cup is Mexico v South Africa,” notes Matt Reilly. “This was also the first game of South Africa’s World Cup in 2010. Is this the first time that an opening match of a World Cup has featured the same two teams as a previous tournament? If not, what is the most common opening fixture of a World Cup?”
The hosts South Africa drew 1-1 with Mexico in the opening game of the 2010 edition. Siphiwe Tshabalala put them ahead with a spectacular goal before Rafael Márquez scored a 79th-minute equaliser. The two sides will meet again at the Azteca on Thursday.
1950 Brazil 4-0 Mexico
Ademir 2, Jair, Baltazar
1954 Brazil 5-0 Mexico
Baltazar, Didi, Pinga 2, Julinho
1962 Brazil 2-0 Mexico
Zagallo, Pelé