Fans in the UAE gather to watch Mexico v South Africa - in pictures

  • South Africa fans gather in Dubai to watch the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. Chris Whiteoak / The National
    South Africa fans gather in Dubai to watch the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. Chris Whiteoak / The National
  • A fan gets his hands on a mock World Cup trophy at Bla Bla by McGettigan's in JBR, Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National
    A fan gets his hands on a mock World Cup trophy at Bla Bla by McGettigan's in JBR, Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National
  • A Mexico supporter in Dubai cheers for his team during their 2-0 win over South Africa. Chris Whiteoak / The National
    A Mexico supporter in Dubai cheers for his team during their 2-0 win over South Africa. Chris Whiteoak / The National
  • Fans make their final preparations for the match. Chris Whiteoak / The National
    Fans make their final preparations for the match. Chris Whiteoak / The National
  • A Dubai resident shows his support for co-hosts Mexico. Chris Whiteoak / The National
    A Dubai resident shows his support for co-hosts Mexico. Chris Whiteoak / The National
  • Football fans gather at Loca Restaurant and Bar in Abu Dhabi for the opening fixture of the tournament. Victor Besa / The National
    Football fans gather at Loca Restaurant and Bar in Abu Dhabi for the opening fixture of the tournament. Victor Besa / The National
  • Mexico supporters in Abu Dhabi. Victor Besa / The National
    Mexico supporters in Abu Dhabi. Victor Besa / The National
  • Mexico had strong support at Loca Restaurant and Bar in the UAE capital. Victor Besa / The National
    Mexico had strong support at Loca Restaurant and Bar in the UAE capital. Victor Besa / The National
  • Mexico and South Africa were the first nations to play in the World Cup, which this year features 48 countries. Victor Besa / The National
    Mexico and South Africa were the first nations to play in the World Cup, which this year features 48 countries. Victor Besa / The National