World Cup Daily by Jason Pine

What happened overnight?

In the first big upset of the tournament, current Cup holders Germany were beaten 1-0 by Mexico in their opening game, cuing scenes of delirium among the travelling Mexican fans. 

Brazil were also denied a perfect start to their tournament by a brave Swiss side who fought back from a goal down to draw 1-1 with the five-time champions.

Earlier, Serbia drew first blood in E, edging Costa Rica 1-0, courtesy of a thumping free-kick from captain Aleksandar Kolarov.

Heroes

Mexico played the best half of football by any team in the World Cup so far, completely refusing to be overawed by Germany and deservedly going in 1-0 up at half-time through a superb goal from 22-year-old Hirving Lozano. 

The Mexican earthquake authority reported celebrations of that goal measured as seismic activity in Mexico City. 

The defending champions came roaring back in the second half and eventually fired off 26 shots at goal, but the Mexicans – with veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa exceptional – held firm to claim a famous victory.

Villains

Our neighbours across the ditch are enduring a frustrating time of things due to major issues with Australian mobile streaming provider Optus who have the rights to broadcast all 64 games at the tournament. 

There have been ongoing problems during the first four days of action, with regular and widespread disruption to Optus services causing mass outrage among their football-loving customers. 

Chief Executive Allen Lew said, "I apologise unreservedly to all Australians," in a statement on Twitter yesterday. 

Spark New Zealand will no doubt be taking notes after winning streaming rights for next year's Rugby World Cup.

They said what?

Hirving Lozano, Mexican goalscorer: "It's the best goal I've scored in my entire life."

Joachim Low, Germany coach: "In the first half we played very badly. In the second half we were able to press but somehow it seemed jinxed, the ball didn't go in the net"

Stat chat

Germany became the sixth defending champion to lose their opening match, following Spain (2014), France (2002), Argentina (1990 and 1982) and Italy (1950).

This was the first time since 1982 that Germany have lost their opening game. It was also just their second defeat in World Cup group play in the last 28 years.

When Rafa Marquez came on for Mexico in the 74^th minute and took the captain's armband, he became the first player to appear in five World Cups and captain his nation in each of them.

Brazil failed to win their opening game for the first time since 1978, but still haven’t lost an opening match since 1930.

Aleksandar Kolarov's winning goal for Serbia was the third direct free-kick scored at this year's World Cup, which is already as many as there were in the entire 2014 tournament in Brazil.

What’s next?

We get our first look at another tournament favourite tomorrow morning when star-studded Belgium open their campaign against Panama at 3am.

England then make their first appearance when they face Tunisia at 6am.

Day five action is underway at midnight when Sweden clash with South Korea.