SportsLine analysts forecast Mexico and South Korea wins in World Cup opener

SportsLine experts Jon Eimer and Martin Green have released betting predictions for the opening matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which commences on Thursday, 11 June. The tournament, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, features an expanded field of 48 teams and begins with a pair of fixtures in Mexico City and Guadalajara.

Eimer predicts that Mexico will defeat South Africa, forecasting three goals for the host nation in the match scheduled for 3 p.m. ET at the Estadio Azteca. He cites the "oppressive environment" created by home supporters as a key factor, alongside Mexico's offensive talent, which includes Santiago Gimenez, Armando Gonzalez, and Raul Jimenez.

Green forecasts a victory for South Korea over Czechia in the 10 p.m. ET fixture in Guadalajara. He attributes this prediction to the Koreans' superior squad quality, noting attacking options such as Son Hueng-Min, Lee Kang-In, and Hwang In-Beom. Green acknowledges the disciplined play of the Czechs but believes South Korea's depth will prevail in what he describes as an entertaining game between well-drilled teams.

These predictions contrast with other expert analyses of the opening round. BBC Sport’s Chris Sutton also anticipates a narrow victory for Mexico but expects a low-scoring affair. In a separate context, Martin Green has previously supported a bet on Mexico to win with under 3.5 goals, citing recent low-scoring form for both nations.

Eimer’s recent betting record includes 64-41-3 in Serie A picks and 17-9-2 in Bundesliga picks. Green’s recent record includes 18-8 in Champions League picks. The experts’ insights are part of a broader focus on sports betting as the World Cup begins, with their plays featured in a two-leg parlay for the first matchday.