11
Mexico too quick for Bafana Bafana
Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the opening fixture of the 2026 World Cup in front of a crowd of 80 000 spectators at the Mexico City Stadium. Mexico dominated the match with attacking players Julian Quinones and 35-year-old Raul Jimenez on the scoresheet.
It was a tough day at the office for Hugo Broos and his men after a tactical disaster led to an embarrassing showing on the turf of the co-hosts of the tournament.
Bafana’s woes
The South African team lacked chemistry on the pitch of which Mexico on the other hand displayed to a fair extent, constantly showing up as an attacking threat. An ultra-defensive approach of 3 centre backs and two full backs in Ikon, Mbokazi, Sibisi, Mudau and Modiba elected by Hugo Broos did not help matters.
Foster and Rayners upfront had little to contribute in terms of attacking exploits. Sithole’s blunder gave away possession to Julian Quinones who found the back of the net on the 8th minute mark. Sithole received a red card after making a challenge on Marcel Ruiz, leaving an already trailing South Africa to play the match with ten men.
Panic set in and started going downhill with the team not showing any competitive will against a Mexican team that played quick passes and looked to capitalise on the counter. Bafana Bafana would then finish the match with nine men on the pitch after substitute Themba Zwane received a red card for making an aggressive challenge to an opponent.
SA on X had interesting comments:
@Real Tshemedii2 “Rele and Appolis just had a great season…why do you bench them?”
@jtamz2 “It doesn’t make sense. Nothing made sense yesterday”
@Benzo_Ndlovu “Williams says they were overwhelmed by the atmosphere, kanti CAF experience doesn’t help them? Yoh”
@Solphendukaa “I get the coach taking the blame but the players also need to show a certain level of FIGHT, a stubbornness and a serious WILL to win. A hunger!”
