The curtain rises on the historic 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday as co-hosts Mexico welcome South Africa to the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
The opening fixture carries extra significance, rekindling memories of the 2010 World Cup opener when the two nations played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in Johannesburg.
Sixteen years after Siphiwe Tshabalala’s unforgettable strike lit up Africa’s first World Cup, Bafana Bafana and El Tri meet again on football’s grandest stage, this time with Mexico enjoying home advantage and carrying the expectations of a passionate nation.
South Africa head into the tournament seeking to overcome a difficult run of form.
Hugo Broos’ men have failed to register a victory in their last four friendly matches, drawing against Panama, Nicaragua and Jamaica while suffering a defeat to Panama.
Despite the disappointing results, Broos remains confident that strict adherence to the team’s tactical plan will be crucial if they are to upset the hosts.
The Belgian tactician believes discipline and organization will be key against a Mexican side that has rediscovered its rhythm after a disappointing end to 2025.
Mexico enter the tournament unbeaten in 2026, recording impressive victories over Panama, Bolivia, Iceland, Ghana, Australia and Serbia, while also securing draws against Portugal and Belgium.
Led by veteran coach Javier Aguirre, El Tri appear to have regained the consistency that has made them one of the most reliable teams at World Cup tournaments.
Mexico have reached each of the last eight World Cups and boast an impressive record in opening matches, winning five, drawing two and losing only once in tournament openers.
For the hosts, much attention will focus on experienced striker Raul Jimenez.
The 35-year-old remains a key figure despite limited appearances this year and recently scored his 45th international goal during Mexico’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Serbia.
Now the third-highest scorer in Mexican history, Jimenez will be eager to finally open his World Cup scoring account.
South Africa’s biggest attacking threat is expected to come from Oswin Appollis.
The Orlando Pirates winger has enjoyed a remarkable rise since joining the club in 2025, scoring six goals in his last 12 appearances for Bafana Bafana.
The 24-year-old has become one of the country’s most influential players and played a major role in Pirates’ league-winning campaign.
The historical connection between these teams adds another fascinating layer to the encounter.
When they met in the opening game of the 2010 World Cup, Tshabalala’s stunning goal sent South Africa into celebration before Mexico equalized through Rafael Márquez.
Interestingly, Márquez will once again be involved on Thursday, this time as an assistant coach to Aguirre.
With a packed Estadio Azteca expected to provide a hostile atmosphere, Mexico start as favourites.
However, South Africa will draw inspiration from their memorable performance against the same opponents in 2010 and hope to begin their 2026 World Cup campaign with another statement result.
The stage is set for a compelling opening chapter in what promises to be the biggest FIFA World Cup ever staged.
