Bafana Bafana seek revenge against Mexico in 2026 World Cup opener

Bafana Bafana will be out for revenge when they face Mexico at the 2026 Fifa World Cup opening match, having drawn 1–1 with them in the opening match of the 2010 tournament on home soil.

Returning to the global stage for the first time since hosting in 2010 - more than 15 years ago - South Africa have been drawn in Group A alongside Mexico, South Korea, and the winners of a March play-off between Denmark, the Czech Republic, North Macedonia, and the Republic of Ireland.

Bafana will be based in Mexico for the group stage, setting the scene for both a homecoming and the renewal of an old rivalry. Coach Hugo Broos last featured at a World Cup as a player in 1986.

Mexico and South Korea are expected to be Bafana’s toughest tests in the group, while the play-off winner is likely to be the team they most fancy for a victory against.

Supporters were in fine voice at a viewing party organised by Bafana’s sponsors, Castle, at the Playground venue in Johannesburg. Among them were Bafana captain Ronwen Williams, striker Mohau Nkota, and national legends Siphiwe Tshabalala and Shaun Bartlett. Their chants, igwijo (traditional sports songs), and cheers reflected the unwavering support for Broos and his squad.

The excitement sweeping the country is matched by Bafana’s rising trajectory. Having finished third at the last Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, the team heads into AFCON next month as one of the continent’s dark horses. Broos has built success through tactical acumen and strong camaraderie among players, regardless of club allegiance.

With junior teams Amajimbos and Amajita fresh from World Cup campaigns, the onus is now on the senior squad to secure South Africa’s first knockout-stage appearance in four attempts.

If the Friday celebrations at the Playground are anything to judge by, the message is clear: “Bring it on.” Bafana Bafana are ready to take on the world and paint America yellow and green.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump received FIFA’s inaugural peace prize during the 2026 World Cup draw at the Kennedy Centre in Washington.

Presented by Fifa president Gianni Infantino, Trump called it “one of the greatest honours of my life,” noting that millions of lives had been saved through discussions with the football body.