The 2026 FIFA World Cup has begun.  

Mexico claimed victory over South Africa in the opening match of the tournament – scoring a goal in each half to win the match 2-nil. 

Next up, South Korea and the Czech Republic are taking the centre stage at Guadalajara Stadium. 

The current favourites to win the Cup are Spain, France, Brazil, and England, with Argentina close behind. 

But Weekend Sport Host Jason Pine told Francesca Rudkin there are some underdogs worth keeping an eye on, such as Japan and Ecuador.  

LISTEN ABOVE 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has begun. &nbsp;
Mexico claimed victory over South Africa in the opening match of the tournament – scoring a goal in each half to win the match 2-nil.&nbsp;
Next up, South Korea and the Czech Republic are taking the centre stage at Guadalajara Stadium.&nbsp;
The current favourites to win the Cup are Spain, France, Brazil, and England, with Argentina close behind.&nbsp;
But Weekend Sport Host Jason Pine told Francesca Rudkin there are some underdogs worth keeping an eye on, such as Japan and Ecuador. &nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

Jason Pine: Weekend Sport Host on the FIFA World Cup kicking off for 2026

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/af18561a-d0c6-4d0b-aa6d-b467000234da/transcript