A macaw parrot at Leipzig Zoo has made an unusual prediction ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener, tipping Mexico to defeat South Africa in the tournament’s first match.
The bird, which has previously been used in light-hearted prediction exercises at the zoo, reportedly selected Mexico over South Africa when presented with two symbolic choices representing the teams.
The opening match of the tournament sees co-hosts Mexico face South Africa, a fixture that has already attracted global attention as the curtain-raiser for the expanded 48-team World Cup.
While Mexico enter the match as favourites due to home advantage and stronger FIFA ranking, South Africa are hoping to cause an upset in their return to the world stage after a long absence.
The macaw’s prediction adds a playful twist to the build-up, though football fans will ultimately wait for the action on the pitch at the Estadio Azteca to decide the real outcome.
The World Cup opener is expected to draw a huge global audience as the tournament officially gets underway.
