FIFA World Cup begins with spectacular opening ceremony in Mexico City

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially commenced at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City with a star-studded opening ceremony. Despite the festivities, the event is taking place against a backdrop of social tensions and protests in the host city.
Why it matters
It captures the contrast between high-profile global sporting events and the underlying local political and social unrest in host nations.
The largest World Cup in tournament history kicks off today with co-host Mexico taking on South Africa in the opening match.
The article balances the coverage of the sporting event with the mention of local protests, maintaining a neutral journalistic tone.
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