Klopp delivers the tournament's first major criticism

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is only just underway, but it already has its first high-profile controversy. The man responsible for it is Jürgen Klopp, who attended the opening match between Mexico and South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca.

The former Liverpool manager, now serving as Red Bull's Global Head of Soccer and a television analyst for German broadcaster ZDF, was not impressed by what he witnessed and did not hesitate to share his thoughts.

Klopp is expected to be one of the most recognizable voices covering the tournament in Germany over the next several weeks, and his first appearance immediately generated headlines.

A historic World Cup begins

The match between Mexico and South Africa officially launched a historic edition of the World Cup.

For the first time ever, the tournament features 48 teams, is hosted across three countries, and includes a total of 104 matches. The expanded format also allows the top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-place finishers, to advance to the knockout stage.

Mexico opened its campaign with a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez, placing Javier Aguirre's side in a strong position heading into the remainder of the group stage.

However, despite the result, the match was marked by interruptions, disciplinary issues, and a lack of rhythm that frustrated many observers.

Klopp points directly at the tactics

It was precisely those issues that caught Klopp's attention.

Analyzing one of the game's decisive moments, the German questioned both teams' tactical approach, particularly after South Africa was reduced to nine men.

"This situation sums up the entire match to some extent. It was simply bad tactics. Neither team played well. Eleven against nine and then you still get caught on the counterattack. Why? Because the back line was sitting too deep. That was a problem throughout the game. South Africa didn't take advantage of it at all. It was not a top-class match," Klopp said during ZDF's broadcast.

His comments quickly sparked debate among fans and pundits, especially given the anticipation surrounding the opening match of the tournament.

Kramer was not impressed either

Klopp was not the only analyst left disappointed.

Former Germany international Christoph Kramer, who joined Klopp on the broadcast, also criticized the quality of the contest.

"You could feel an intense atmosphere, and I expected that intensity to open up the game and create more space. But I thought the players would then focus on winning their duels, and that didn't happen. It's great that they're playing there, but it felt more like a charity match," Kramer said while discussing the game that officially kicked off the 2026 World Cup.

Despite the criticism, Mexico achieved the most important objective of the night by collecting all three points. However, Klopp's remarks have ensured that the conversation surrounding the quality of the opening match will continue well beyond the final whistle.

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