MAHLATSE AT THE WORLD CUP | Latest developments at FIFA World Cup 2026

June 29 2026, 15.45 pm

There is hope for the future for Bafana

Bafana Bafana were eliminated from the Fifa World Cup by Canada, but there is genuine hope for the future because young players got opportunities to play and impressed.

Sunday’s last 32 match at Los Angeles Stadium appeared to be heading for extra time, but Stephen Eustaquio beat Ronwen Williams after a clearance from Ime Okon fell in his path in the dying minutes.

June 29 2026, 14.55 pm

‘I hope he stays,’ says Modiba of Bafana coach Hugo Broos

Bafana Bafana defender Aubrey Modiba is hoping coach Hugo Broos stays with the team until next year’s Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Broos, who has indicated he will retire after the 2026 Fifa World Cup to spend time with his family in Belgium, has made noises at the tournament implying he may have changed his mind and is willing to stay for a little longer.

June 28 2026, 23.00 pm

Bafana are coming home as they are edged by Canada in World Cup last 32

Stephen Eustaquio scored in added time to reward Canada’s extended pressure with a 1-0 2026 FIFA World Cup last 32 win and send Bafana Bafana out of the tournament.

The South Africans defended bravely, though also at times desperately for the full 90 minutes, but paid for being unable to get their attack functioning against the physical and aggressive World Cup co-hosts.

June 28 2026, 23.00 pm

Canada win 1-0 and boot Bafana Bafana out of the World Cup

Bafana Bafana are out of the World Cup.

June 28 2026, 18.18 pm

Bafana coach Hugo Broos says they are ready for Canada

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says they will have to be at their best to overcome aggressive Canada in their 2026 Fifa World Cup last-32 clash at Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday (9pm SA time).

In his pre-match press conference at the match venue on Saturday, Broos urged his players to rise to the occasion and keep on going in the tournament.

June 28 2026, 12:30 pm

Bafana coach Broos says it will be a miracle if South Africa qualifies for the third round

Bafana Bafana have tasted that winning feeling at the 2026 Fifa World Cup, and they want more.

After the disappointing loss to Mexico and draw with Czechia, South Africa managed a turnaround with a stunning performance to beat South Korea and seal a historic place in the knockout stage.

They take on co-hosts Canada, who forfeited their chance to host this match at home by failing to win Group B, in the last 32 at the Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday, looking to cause another major upset.

June 26 2026, 12.03pm

June 26 2026, 12.03pm

EXPLAINER | Mphela explains why Bafana got it right against South Korea

Following Bafana Bafana’s famous 1-0 win over South Korea in their final Group A Fifa World Cup match on Thursday, ex-Bafana Bafana striker Katlego Mphela has explained how coach Hugo Broos got it right.

After a disappointing 2-0 defeat to co-host Mexico in the opening match, Bafana came back to draw with Czech Republic before securing a historic victory against Korea to book their place in the last 32. They will face Canada at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California, on Sunday at 9pm.

Broos adjusted his lineup to oust Korea and secure a passage to the next round after reverting to a positive 4-3-3 system that gave Bafana attacking flair.

[ EXPLAINER | Mphela explains why Bafana got it right against South KoreaOpens in new window ]

June 25 2026, 2:05pm

LISTEN | How Bafana hero Thapelo Maseko’s family reacted to ‘that’ goal

Thapelo Maseko’s father Motsamai has described how the entire household erupted in screams of joy when the Bafana Bafana winger scored the winning goal against South Korea.

Maseko’s goal cemented South Africa’s place in the last 32 stage of the World Cup in Mexico.

Motsamai, who watched the match with his wife Minah and sons Lucky and Bokang, described the moment as emotional and said Thapelo had made everyone proud after missing chances earlier on.

“Everyone screamed; he scored the goal.

[ LISTEN | How Bafana hero Thapelo Maseko’s family reacted to ‘that’ goal Opens in new window ]

June 25 2026, 11:55 am

Broos hails planning as Bafana used skill and pace to beat South Korea

Bafana Bafana knew what to expect from South Korea, thanks to meticulous planning by their technical and analysis team.

Speaking after South Africa beat the “Taegeuk Warriors” 1-0 at Estadio Monterrey Stadium on Wednesday (or the early hours of Thursday in South Africa) to finish second in the Fifa World Cup’s Group A, Broos said they planned to counter a team speed that would try to put the ball behind Bafana’s defence.

WATCH | Bafana coach Hugo Broos on how they analyzed South Korea. Click on the link for more

June 25 2026, 5:00

Bafana heroes stun South Korea and make World Cup history

History makers Bafana Bafana march on at the 2026 Fifa World Cup.

With the odds stacked against them, they rose to the occasion under the humid conditions of Monterrey to produce a stunning 1-0 win over South Korea on Thursday morning.

[ Bafana heroes stun South Korea and make World Cup historyOpens in new window ]

June 25 2026, 03:00

BLOW BY BLOW | Bafana shock Korea and reach World Cup last 32

Blow by blow updates from South Africa’s must-win final 2026 FIFA World Cup game in Monterrey

[ BLOW BY BLOW | Bafana shock Korea and reach World Cup last 32Opens in new window ]

June 24 2026, 16:12

MAHLATSE’S DAILY WORLD CUP TALKING POINT | SA ready for South Korea, says Broos

The time for talking is over. It’s now time for the Bafana Bafana players to step up and beat South Korea and enhance their chances of qualifying for the knockout stage of the World Cup.

[ MAHLATSE’S DAILY WORLD CUP TALKING POINT | SA ready for South Korea, says BroosOpens in new window ]

June 24 2026, 15:03

Bafana must adapt to sweltering conditions in Monterrey, says Broos

Bafana Bafana and South Korea will possibly have another natural opponent to contend with in their must-win final 2026 Fifa World Cup Group A clash at Estadio Monterrey on Wednesday (7pm Monterrey time, Thursday 3am SA time).

It is intensely hot and humid in the area and conditions are hovering around 33°C during the day, and above 28°C around the night kickoff time, something Bafana were not exposed to at their high-altitude base in Pachuca and South Korea in Guadalajara.

• All the World Cup fixtures here
• World Cup page here
• All the group profiles here
• Star player profiles here
• Bafana news here

[ Bafana must adapt to sweltering conditions in Monterrey, says BroosOpens in new window ]

June 24 2026, 14:00

What Bafana must get right against South Korea

Bafana Bafana have all to do in their crucial final Group A match of the 2026 Fifa World Cup against South Korea at Estadio Monterrey in Mexico on Thursday (3am, SA time).

SA must beat the ‘Taegeuk Warriors’ to have any realistic chance of making history and progressing to the next round of the tournament at the fourth time of asking.

June 23 2026, 10:50

Broos has to get it right again as Bafana face moment of truth

Analysing South Korea, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos pointed out an important factor that their key players are vastly experienced and turn out for top teams in Europe. And he is correct.

The defence of the team South Africa meet in a must-win final 2026 World Cup Group A game at Estadio Monterrey in Mexico on Wednesday (7pm local time, 3am on Thursday in SA) is marshalled by veteran Kim Min-jae of Bayern Munich, who is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the German Bundesliga. He operates alongside Lee Han-Beom of Midtjylland in Denmark.

In the midfield, the “Taegeuk Warriors” have Lee Kang-in of Paris Saint-Germain, Hwang Inbeom of Feyenoord Rotterdam, Lee Jae-Sung of Mainz and Seol Young-Woo of Crvena Zvezda.

For much-needed goals, South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo relies heavily on Hwang Hee-chan of Wolverhampton Wanderers and hugely experienced 33-year-old former Tottenham Hotspur striker Son Heung-min, who plays for Los Angeles FC.

June 22 2026, 16:00

Bafana must deal with Korea’s organisation and pace

Mexico came with their possession-based style of play, Czechia with physicality and aerial strength, and South Korea with tactical organisation and blistering pace.

Bafana continued their preparations at their Universidad del Fútbol base in Pachuca, Mexico, on Sunday afternoon and depart for Monterrey on Monday to finalise their preparations for their final 2026 Fifa World Cup Group A match.

June 22 2026, 15:16

England, Ghana eye knockout berths as World Cup stakes rise

England and Ghana both have the chance to book their place in the World Cup knockout stage when they clash in Boston on Tuesday after opening-match victories in Group L.

England began their campaign with an entertaining 4-2 win over Croatia, while Ghana edged Panama 1-0, leaving the two teams level on three points ahead of a potentially decisive meeting.

June 21 2026, 17:23

Bafana’s ‘Mr Dependable’ Mbatha will be key against South Korea

It happened once again in the game against Czechia in Atlanta last week.

With Bafana Bafana’s backs to the wall after the disappointing loss to Mexico, coach Hugo Broos turned to “Mr Dependable” in midfielder Thalente Mbatha and he produced a solid performance.

Mbatha, who usually doesn’t get the limelight and flies under the radar for the national team, is not always a certainty to start matches, but always responds positively whenever Broos looks in his direction.

Cast you mind back to the second group stage match of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) against Egypt in Agadir where Broos wanted to nullify the threat of Zizo, Hamdi Fathy, Mohamed Salah, Trezeguet and Omar Marmoush.

[ Bafana’s ‘Mr Dependable’ Mbatha will be key against South KoreaOpens in new window ]

June 21 2026, 14:33

Bafana captain Williams says players’ belief is back as they prepare for South Korea

There is a feel-good factor in the Bafana Bafana camp as they prepare for the crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup group stages match against South Korea in Monterrey on Thursday (3am SA time).

Bafana recovered from the awful 2-0 opening loss to Mexico at the Azteca Stadium by taking the game to physical Czechia, and captain Ronwen Williams says that performance has done wonders for the team.

[ Bafana captain Williams says players’ belief is back as they prepare for South KoreaOpens in new window ]

June 18 2026, 20:08

Bafana fight back for a draw against Czechia to keep their World Cup alive

Bafana Bafana earned a gritty 1-1 draw form their second 2026 Fifa World Cup Group A match at Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Thursday, keeping their knockout hopes alive.

[ Bafana fight back for a draw against Czechia to keep their World Cup aliveOpens in new window ]

June 18 2026, 20:40

WATCH | Retired striker Pollen Ndlanya says Bafana Bafana should have won against Czechia, who held them to a 1-all in their second World Cup Group A match in Atlanta on Thursday, predicting the last group match against South Korea next Thursday will be more difficult.

June 18 2026, 20:04

FULL TIME - CZECHIA 1 BAFANA BAFANA 1

In the end, Bafana fought, they showed they could play. South Korea will be tough. Perhaps this gives Bafana confidence.

They need three points on June 25 at 3am SA time. They can do it. They can build on this performance and do better. They mostly outplayed Czechia. SA are still in the World Cup!!

[ BLOW BY BLOW | Bafana fight back to earn brave draw against CzechiaOpens in new window ]

83 minute: GOOOOOOOOAAAAAAALLLLLLLLL!!!!! GOOOALLLLL!!!! GOOOALLLL!!!! Czechia 1 Bafana 1

WATCH | Fans at Castle Lager fan watch at Ekoneni in Vosloorus react to Bafana Bafana first goal at 2026 World Cup.

June 18 2026, 19:25

South Africa need goals.

WATCH | Panic starts to kick in on for Bafana Bafana fans watching the game against Czech Republic at Koneni in Vosloorus after Ronwen Williams conceded an early goal.

June 18 2026, 18:52

45+5 - That’s the halftime whistle!

WATCH | Bafana legend Brian Baloyi is not happy with the changes Bafana coach Hugo Broos made to the starting XI, predicts a draw.

June 18 2026, 18:30

WATCH | Itu remains hopeful.

10min in - Bafana really shaky under Czech’s precision and pace. And now they have it all to do again!

Like in Mexico, Bafana just have to settle ...

6min - GOOOOOOOALLLLLL!!!! GOOOOOALLLL!!!! GOAALLLLL!!! Czechia 1 Bafana 0

Czech score! Class goal, even if Bafana at sixes and sevens. No 9. Adam Hlozek dangerous angled low ball from the right across the box, touch on the edge of the area and 18. Michal Sadilek in acres of space to finish!

June 18 2026, 17:58

WATCH | Bafana Bafana welcomed by fans and TKZee’s Shibobo at Atlanta Stadium.

June 18 2026, 17:08

Broos rings changes in starting XI for Bafana’s crucial clash with Czechia

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has made three changes to his starting XI to take on Czechia in their crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup Group A match at Atlanta Stadium on Thursday (noon in Georgia, 6pm SA time).

The coach deployed a defensive 3-5-2 formation and line-up that backfired in Bafana’s 2-0 opening defeat to co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City last Thursday.

[ Broos rings changes in starting XI for Bafana’s crucial clash with CzechiaOpens in new window ]

June 18 2026, 15:00

Additional 19 fans selected for all-expenses-paid trip to cheer on Bafana Bafana in Monterrey

The department of sport, arts and culture has announced that an additional 19 football fans have been selected to travel to Monterrey, Mexico, to watch Bafana Bafana play their third 2026 Fifa World Cup group stage match against South Korea on June 24.

The competition opened on May 31 and closed on June 2. To enter, fans were required to submit a 30-second video showcasing their passion for South African football.

[ Additional 19 fans selected for all-expenses-paid trip to cheer on Bafana Bafana in MonterreyOpens in new window ]

June 18 2026, 13:05

Broos to change Bafana’s approach against Czechia

Expect a different look to Bafana Bafana when they take on Czechia in their crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup clash at Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, on Thursday.

South Africa and tough, physical Czechia are both desperate for a win in their second Group A clash (noon in Atlanta, 6pm SA time) to refresh their campaigns and stay on course for the last 32 after South Africa lost to co-hosts Mexico (2-0) and Czechia lost to South Korea (2-1) last week.

Read: MAHLATSE’S DAILY WORLD CUP TALKING POINT

June 18 2026, 11:50

Broos to ring changes for Bafana’s crucial World Cup clash against Czechia

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos will ring formation and personnel changes for the crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup clash against Czechia at Atlanta Stadium on Thursday.

Both teams are under pressure as they go into the clash after they lost their opening matches last week, and another defeat will leave their hopes of progressing to the next round in serious danger.

At his pre-match press conference on Wednesday Broos said South African supporters must expect a few changes after his unusual formation in the 2-0 opening-match defeat against Mexico backfired.

[ Broos to ring changes for Bafana’s crucial World Cup clash against CzechiaOpens in new window ]

June 18 2026, 10:30

‘Shut up’, Bafana coach Broos tells critics as they prepare to meet Czechia

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has come out swinging at detractors who criticised the team’s performance in their 2-0 2026 Fifa World Cup defeat to Mexico last week, saying he is doing it his way and they must “shut up”.

Broos was the subject of stinging criticism from football supporters after Bafana played an unusual formation that backfired in the tournament opening match in Mexico City last Thursday.

[ ‘Shut up’, Bafana coach Broos tells critics as they prepare to meet CzechiaOpens in new window ]

June 17 2026, 16:45

What Broos needs to do as Bafana meet Czechia

All eyes are on Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos as the team’s crucial second 2026 Fifa World Cup Group A clash against Chechia looms.

South Africans are waiting with bated breath to see how Broos will balance his starting XI against the physically imposing Europeans at Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia (noon in Atlanta, 6pm SA time).

[ What Broos needs to do as Bafana meet CzechiaOpens in new window ]

June 17 2026, 14:16

Broos must get approach right as Bafana have it all to play for against Czechia

Bafana Bafana were welcomed by rainy weather when they arrived in the US state of Georgia on Tuesday for their World Cup clash against Czechia at Atlanta Stadium on Thursday.

South Africa are under pressure to get something positive from the match and refresh their campaign after a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Mexico in the tournament’s opening match, but it’s not going to be easy against the physically imposing Europeans.

Czechia have problems of their own because they lost their opening match 2-1 to South Korea in Monterrey, Mexico, and a win here in Atlanta will also be top of their agenda to stay in contention for the knockout stage.

[ Broos must get approach right as Bafana have it all to play for against CzechiaOpens in new window ]

June 17 2026, 12:13

The battle of Atlanta: five key players for Bafana

Bafana Bafana have it all to play for in their second Group A match of the 2026 Fifa World Cup against Czechia at the Atlanta Stadium in Georgia on Thursday.

After their 2-0 opening defeat against Mexico, a win against physically imposing Czechia would refresh South Africa’s ambitions of qualifying for the last 32. Bafana’s last group match against South Korea will be played next week in Monterrey, Mexico.

For South Africa to achieve their mission, coach Hugo Broos is going to rely on five key players: Read the full report.

June 16 2026, 16:39

Bafana’s Maseko wants to make up for lost time

The stars have aligned beautifully for attacking midfielder Thapelo Maseko as he finds himself with Bafana Bafana at the 2026 Fifa World Cup after falling in love with the game again in Cyprus.

Several injuries led to him falling down the pecking order at star-studded Mamelodi Sundowns where coach Miguel Cardoso had enough options on the bench.

When he was fit, it was hard to break into the team and lack of regular game time saw him miss out on what could have been his second Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) appearance in Morocco.

[ Bafana’s Maseko wants to make up for lost timeOpens in new window ]

June 16 2026, 15:30

Bafana in high spirits after prep for Czechia

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos was his usual self at their training base at Universidad del Futbol in Mexico as they wrapped up preparations for the 2026 Fifa World Cup match against Czechia in Atlanta on Thursday.

Bafana go into this match under pressure after they lost their opening match of the tournament to Mexico last week, but goalkeeper Ricardo Goss and attacker Thapelo Maseko said they have put the defeat behind them.

[ Bafana in high spirits after prep for CzechiaOpens in new window ]

June 16 2026, 14:40

Anyone doubting Bafana ‘better think again’, says Thapelo Maseko

Bafana Bafana have been in this situation before, with doubts hanging over their heads after losing the first match of a big tournament, but attacker Thapelo Maseko says they have the experience to turn it around.

Bafana started the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Ivory Coast with a 2-0 loss to Mali in Korhogo, but coach Hugo Broos galvanised the team, and they went on to walk away with the bronze medal.

[ https://www.businessday.co.za/sport/soccer/2026-06-16-anyone-doubting-bafana-better-think-again-says-thapelo-maseko/Opens in new window ]

June 16 2026, 13:20

Coach Broos, change approach and unleash Mofokeng for Czechia

Much has been said about Bafana Bafana since their 2-0 2026 Fifa World Cup opening match loss to Mexico, with coach Hugo Broos and the players, in many instances, vilified for that underwhelming performance.

South African supporters are opinionated when it comes to sport and especially Bafana, and the backlash was expected because of their emotional attachment to the senior national team.

Given that disappointingly pedestrian performance against co-hosts Mexico, it was expected there would be a backlash. Whether it was harsh is a matter for personal reflection and judgement.

Three points were lost against Mexico, and there is nothing anyone can do about it. However, Bafana are still alive in this tournament with six points to play for against Czechia and South Korea.

[ Coach Broos, change approach, unleash Mofokeng for CzechiaOpens in new window ]

June 14 2026, 16:35

Vilakazi urges Broos to unleash Mofokeng against Czechia

Furious debate continues on how Bafana Bafana must approach their important World Cup clash against Czechia on Thursday in Atlanta, and former Bafana Bafana midfielder Benedict “Tso” Vilakazi has joined the conversation.

Vilakazi, who was in the stadium when Bafana capitulated in their 2-0 loss to co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium last week, is one of the many voices calling for Broos to give Relebohile Mofokeng a chance.

[ Vilakazi urges Broos to unleash Mofokeng against CzechiaOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 22:45

Bafana have a knife at their throats after scrappy defeat to Mexico

One match into the 2026 Fifa World Cup and Bafana Bafana have a knife to their throats.

Their 2-0 defeat to co-hosts Mexico, who finally won an opening match of the World Cup after two unsuccessful attempts, means Bafana must get something from their next match against Czechia in Atlanta, Georgia next week Thursday.

[ Bafana have a knife to their throats after scrappy defeat to MexicoOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 22:25

Bafana suffer two red cards as they lose against Mexico

FULL TIME - Mexico 2 Bafana Bafana 0

90 + 8 - THAT’S FULL TIME!

[ LIVE UPDATES | Bafana suffer two red cards as they lose against MexicoOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 22:00

Mexico 1 Bafana Bafana 0

Broos needs answers at the break. The players too.

[ LIVE UPDATES | Bafana on back foot as Mexico take lead to the break in World Cup openerOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 21:40

LIVE UPDATES | Bafana on back foot as Mexico take early lead in World Cup opener

Mexico 1 - Bafana 0

[ LIVE UPDATES | Bafana on back foot as Mexico take early lead in World Cup openerOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 21:20

From the World Cup ceremony in Mexico to fan parks in Johannesburg and Durban, here are the moments in pictures:

June 11 2026, 21:05

Phambili nge war Bafanas. LET’S GO!!!!

#BafanaBafana #Fifa2026 #WorldCup #RSAMEX

June 11 2026, 20:48

WATCH | It is almost time for the start of 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Azteca Stadium.

June 11 2026, 20:30

Broos springs some surprises in Bafana starting XI for World Cup opener

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos sprang a few surprises with his formation and the personnel in his starting line-up for Thursday’s 2026 Fifa World Cup opening match against Mexico.

Ronwen Wlliams has taken his place between the posts at Estadio Azteca (1pm in Mexico City, 9pm SA time).

However, of great interest is in front of him where Broos has gone with a three-man defence of Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Ime Okon and Nkosinathi Sibisi.

[ Broos springs some surprises in Bafana starting XI for World Cup openerOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 20:00

Excitement builds up outside the Azteca Stadium as 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match between Mexico and South Africa draws closer.

June 11 2026, 19:50

LIVE UPDATES | Mexico v Bafana in World Cup opener, all the build-up and action

Catch the live updates of the 2026 World Cup opening game at Estadio Azteca here:

[ LIVE UPDATES | Mexico v Bafana in World Cup opener, all the build-up and actionOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 18:46

Watch Fifa president Gianni Infantino on the US hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

June 11 2026, 18:44

Bafana Bafana supporter Mamello Makha confident ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match against Mexico.

June 11 2026, 18:35

Bafana Bafana supporter Masilo Machaka says it’s not going to be easy against Mexico in 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match.

June 11 2026, 17:20

Arena Sports Show | Sundowns and Pirates players are key for Bafana at World Cup

Arena Sports Show host Clauiee Grace Mpanza and regular guest Sizwe Mabena are joined by football analyst Musi Matlaba and footballer Ramahlwe Mphahlele. Here’s what they had to say:

[ ARENA SPORTS SHOW | Sundowns and Pirates players key for Bafana at World CupOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 16:36

Pretoria communities unite for Bafana’s World Cup opener | ‘The boys will make us proud. The coach just needs to put out the right line-up’.

With the 2026 Fifa World Cup finally here, the Pretoria community is buzzing with excitement. Mexico and South Africa will open the event when they face off at Mexico City stadium on Thursday at 9pm.

Pretoria community members will be watching the game at different locations.

[ WATCH | Pretoria communities unite for Bafana’s World Cup openerOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 16: 21

Mexico’s star players — what Bafana are up against in World Cup opener

Coach Javier Aguirre has set Mexico up for uncompromising football that gives precious little away, making fast counterattacks count.

[ Mexico’s star players — what Bafana are up against in World Cup openerOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 16: 15

An amazing tale — Bafana coach Broos and Mexico’s Aguirre squared up as players in 1986 opener

As Bafana Bafana and Mexico stride out carrying the hopes of their nations in Thursday’s 2026 Fifa World Cup opening game at Estadio Azteca (9pm SA time), South Africa coach Hugo Broos and El Tri counterpart Javier Aguirre might give each other a knowing look.

[ An amazing tale — Bafana coach Broos and Mexico’s Aguirre squared up as players in 1986 openerOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 16: 10

The wait is over! World Cup starts TONIGHT with Bafana vs Mexico! Some fans are confident, some are nervous… all of them are passionate. Watch, then drop YOUR prediction in the comments!

June 11 2026, 14: 44

Mexico v Bafana, World Cup kickoff and opening ceremony — all you need to know

The 2026 Fifa World Cup kicks off on Thursday when Mexico clash against Bafana Bafana at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

[ Mexico v Bafana, World Cup kickoff and opening ceremony — all you need to know Opens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 14: 26

A letter to the nation | We are back ... the spirit of the World Cup burns bright in SA

Not just back at the Fifa World Cup 2026 … Back to believing again. Back to dreaming again. Back together again. For 16 years, we South Africans have waited for this moment, writes Ronwen Williams.

[ RONWEN WILLIAMS | We are back ... the spirit of the World Cup burns bright in SAOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 14:30

Mexico’s star players — what Bafana are up against in World Cup opener

When he returned to the Mexican national team for his third stint in 2024, coach Javier Aguirre introduced defensive discipline and they moved away from their traditional expansive attacking style towards a pragmatic approach.

Bafana Bafana will face a team set up to be uncomfortable to play against, aiming for uncompromising football that gives precious little away and making fast counterattacks count in Thursday’s 2026 Fifa World Cup opening game at Estadio Azteca (1pm in Mexico Coty, 9pm SA time).

[ Mexico’s star players — what Bafana are up against in World Cup opener Opens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 14:00

WATCH | Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos is targeting a win over Mexico in World Cup opener to calm nerves.

June 11 2026, 12:00

MAHLATSE’S DAILY WORLD CUP TALKING POINT | Wait finally over as tournament kicks off at Azteca

The wait is over. The 2026 Fifa World Cup kicks off on Thursday, and Bafana Bafana end their 16-year wait to return to the tournament when they clash against Mexico in the opening match.

The famed Estadio Azteca will be packed with a wall of green supporters behind coach Javier Aguirre’s tough “El Tri” as counterpart Hugo Broos’s Bafana Bafana will be up against the co-hosts (1pm in Mexico City, 9pm SA time).

[ MAHLATSE’S DAILY WORLD CUP TALKING POINT | Wait finally over as tournament kicks off at AztecaOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 11:40

‘I don’t regret anything’: Gianni Infantino on the US hosting the Fifa World Cup

Instead of waiting for tough questions from the floor, Fifa president Gianni Infantino took the initiative and wasted no time dealing with the elephants in the room.

The first matter that needed attention at his pre-2026 Fifa World Cup press conference at Estadio Azteca, where Mexico meets Bafana Bafana in Thursday’s opening game (1pm in Mexico City, 9pm SA time), was Iran’s status at the tournament, as the US and Israel’s war against that nation continues to rage.

Then there was the hugely contentious issue of Somalian referee Omar Artan, who was denied entry to the US amid that country’s controversial Immigration policies under President Donald Trump’s administration, which has earned Fifa international condemnation. Another was the expensive match-day tickets.

[ ‘I don’t regret anything’: Gianni Infantino on the US hosting the Fifa World CupOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 11:01

POLL | Will Bafana Bafana beat Mexico in the World Cup opening game?

Sixteen years after Siphiwe Tshabalala’s iconic rocket shook Johannesburg in the 2010 opener, the football gods have engineered the perfect sequel.

On Thursday night the 2026 Fifa World Cup officially bursts into life as co-hosts Mexico welcome South Africa’s Bafana Bafana to the legendary, hyper-charged Estadio Azteca.

It is a high-stakes curtain-raiser, and the fans are deeply divided on how this blockbusting Group A clash will unfold. Where do you stand?

[ POLL | Will Bafana Bafana beat Mexico in the World Cup opening game? Opens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 09:35

The World Cup kicks off: Bafana must not be overawed by the hostile Azteca

The iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City will be packed to the rafters with more than 80,000 passionate and screaming home supporters but South Africa can spoil the party for co-hosts Mexico.

Ahead of Thursday’s huge-viewership 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match (1pm in Mexico City, 9pm SA time) to raise the curtain on the biggest tournament yet — the expanded 48 participants play to an extravaganza of 104 matches across the US, Mexico and Canada — Bafana coach Broos said in his pre-match press conference his team are ready and will block the noise from the stands.

[ The World Cup kicks off: Bafana must not be overawed by the hostile AztecaOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 09:00

16 years on, the shoe that scored the first goal at 2010 World Cup

16 years ago today, Siphiwe Tshabalala was one of the stars of the 2010 World Cup Bafana Bafana team. He made history by scoring the first goal of the tournament, a thunderbolt with his left foot. As a much-anticipated event for the country, our first, the goal put him in the history books.

While many reminisce about the moment itself, the songs including Waka Waka and the casual Fridays that have become part of our DNA, many forget the shoes behind the kick that gave Bafana Bafana their tournament highlight.

“We had what was called a share of play ambition, which was to get 71% of players on the pitch in Nike footwear. We had nine of the starting 11 in Nike boots,” said Bronson Mokabela, marketing general manager at the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc).

[ 16 years on, the shoe that scored the first goal at 2010 World CupOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 08:45

LUCKY MATHEBULA | South Africa and Mexico again: why June 11 is more than a football anniversary

Sixteen years after the sound of the vuvuzela announced South Africa to the world, June 11 returns with an almost poetic symmetry.

South Africa and Mexico meet again on the same date that opened the 2010 World Cup, the match that ended 1–1 after Siphiwe Tshabalala gave Bafana Bafana the lead and Rafael Márquez equalised late.

Now, as the 2026 tournament opens in Mexico City with Mexico again facing South Africa, the fixture is more than a sporting coincidence. It is an invitation to remember what football can reveal about a nation to itself.

[ LUCKY MATHEBULA | South Africa and Mexico again: why June 11 is more than a football anniversary Opens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 08:30

BLAST FROM THE PAST | Tshabalala’s stellar goal against Mexico jump-starts World Cup

2010 — Bafana Bafana and Mexico play to a 1-1 draw in the opening match of the World Cup in front of nearly 85,000 fans at Soccer City. The visitors applied the pressure in the first half of this Group A contest, but Siphiwe Tshabalala scored one of the goals of the tournament to put the hosts ahead in the 55th minute. Rafael Marquez levelled the score with 11 minutes remaining, and Katlego Mphela missed a vital chance to clinch the game for South Africa in the last minute of normal time when his shot hit the post.

[ BLAST FROM THE PAST | Tshabalala’s stellar goal against Mexico jump-starts World CupOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 08:11

Tyla to perform SA national anthem for Fifa World Cup opening

South Africans around the world will have their eyes fixed on Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca on Thursday as Bafana Bafana take on hosts Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 Fifa World Cup.

Adding to the occasion, two-time Grammy-award-winning icon Tyla is set to perform the South African national anthem before kickoff, bringing Mzansi flavour to one of the world’s biggest sporting stages.

She will also be performing a medley of hits, including a collaborative Afropop Fifa track with US rapper Future, titled Game Time.

[ Tyla to perform SA national anthem for Fifa World Cup openingOpens in new window ]

June 11 2026, 08:00

EDITORIAL | Bafana can give SA something to celebrate: 63-million of us are willing them to do so

It is history in the making as Bafana Bafana meet co-hosts Mexico at the fabled Estadio Azteca in Thursday’s 2026 World Cup opening game (1pm in Mexico City, 9pm SA time).

The tournament’s opening match has a huge viewership and this one, according to reports, is on track to smash the TV and streaming record for the first game, with projections of 1.1-billion live viewers worldwide.

It is a replay of the opening game when South Africa hosted the 2010 World Cup and Bafana drew 1-1 with Mexico in the opener at FNB Stadium.

[ EDITORIAL | Bafana can give SA something to celebrate: 63-million of us are willing them to do soOpens in new window ]

June 10 2026, 16:00

Mexico City suspends classes, shifts to remote work for traffic for Bafana World Cup kickoff

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday issued a decree ordering federal workers in the capital to work from home on June 11 and suspending school classes to ease traffic during FIFA World Cup opening events.

The decree aims to improve urban mobility and road safety as Mexico City hosts the World Cup opening match against Bafana Bafana at Estadio Azteca (1pm local time, 9pm SA time) and accompanying events on Thursday.

[ Mexico City suspends classes, shifts to remote work for traffic for Bafana World Cup kickoffOpens in new window ]

June 10 2026, 14:22

All-Brazilian line-up to referee Mexico v Bafana World Cup opening game

Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio will take charge of the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup between Mexico and Bafana Bafana, leading a three-man Brazil team for the curtain-raiser in Mexico City.

Compatriots Bruno Pires and Bruno Boschilia will be Sampaio’s assistants in Thursday’s Group A inaugural clash at Estadio Azteca (1pm in Mexico City, 9pm SA time).

Sampaio also officiated matches at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and was part of the video assistant referee (VAR) team when it was introduced at the 2018 edition in Russia.

[ All-Brazilian line-up to referee Mexico v Bafana World Cup opening gameOpens in new window ]

June 10 2026, 13:32

2026 FIFA World Cup, all the fixtures

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off with the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and Bafana Bafana at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca on Thursday.

[ 2026 Fifa World Cup: all the fixturesOpens in new window ]

June 10 2026, 12:26

MAHLATSE’S DAILY WORLD CUP TALKING POINT | Mbokazi cleared to play for Bafana against Mexico

There is good news coming out of the Bafana Bafana camp, with clarification that central defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi is available for the World Cup opener against Mexico on Thursday.

There had been confusion about Mbokazi potentially being suspended. However, confirmation has been provided that the 20-year-old Chicago Fire defensive star served a one-match ban and was handed a monetary fine after his red card for “unsporting behaviour towards an opponent” in a qualifier against Zimbabwe last year.

[ MAHLATSE’S DAILY WORLD CUP TALKING POINT | Mbokazi cleared to play for Bafana against MexicoOpens in new window ]

June 10 2026, 11:30

What Bafana must get right against Mexico

Bafana Bafana will be up against it when they take on co-hosts Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 Fifa World Cup at the imposing Azteca Stadium on Thursday (1pm in Mexico City, 9pm SA time).

Coach Hugo Broos has pointed out South Africa will have to be at their best against a well-balanced team that will be backed by passionate and intimidating support in the fabled 87,000-seat venue.

[ What Bafana must get right against MexicoOpens in new window ]

What Bafana must get right against Mexico

June 10 2026, 11:10

MAHLATSE’S DAILY WORLD CUP TALKING POINT | Mbokazi cleared to play against Mexico.

June 10 2026, 10:42

WATCH | Bafana Bafana preparing for 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match against Mexico on Thursday.

Bafana coach Broos banking on Champions League experience of Sundowns players

June 10 2026, 10:30

Bafana Bafana may have at least five Mamelodi Sundowns players in their starting line-up for the opening 2026 Fifa World Cup match against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium on Thursday (1pm in Mexico City, 9pm SA time).

Sundowns players are hardened and conditioned to playing at a higher level after competing in the latter stages of the Caf Champions League every season. They reached the last four semifinals and last two finals, adding a second title to the one won in 2016 in 2025-26 with their 2-1 aggregate last-match win against Morocco’s AS FAR last month, even though they lost their Betway Premiership title to rivals Orlando Pirates.

Bafana coach Hugo Broos said it is important to have players with such proven experience in the squad because they are used to playing in high-stakes matches.

[ Bafana coach Broos banking on Champions League experience of Sundowns playersOpens in new window ]

June 9 2026, 15:10

Bafana will ‘fight like lions’ against ‘complete team’ Mexico, says Broos

[ Bafana World Cup opening matchOpens in new window ]

June 10 2026, 06:00

EXCLUSIVE | We have the same mentality: Mkhalele on working with Bafana coach Hugo Broos

Helman Mkhalele has lifted the lid on his strong working relationship with Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, saying they have the same mentality when it comes to football.

Mkhalele has been Broos’ assistant coach for just over five years. The pair have been responsible for the revival of the senior national team with two Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) appearances, including a best finish of bronze in 2024, and qualification for the 2026 Fifa World Cup in the US, Mexico and Canada.

The World Cup starts on Thursday with Bafana taking on co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City (1pm local time, 9pm SA time), where they will be looking for a positive start.

[ EXCLUSIVE | We have the same mentality: Mkhalele on working with Bafana coach Hugo BroosOpens in new window ]

June 9 2026, 14:03

MAHLATSE’S DAILY WORLD CUP TALKING POINT | Modiba in race to be fit for Bafana-Mexico

June 9 2026 13:37

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos on the pressure of playing against the co-host in opening match of the World Cup.

June 9 2026 12:56

Sports minister Gayton Mckenzie says he has high hopes for Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

June 9 2026, 6am

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos is confronted with a selection headache ahead of the anticipated Fifa World Cup opener against co-hosts Mexico at the imposing Azteca Stadium on Thursday.

[ Broos faces selection headache for Bafana v MexicoOpens in new window ]

June 8 2026, 16:59

Former Bafana Bafana and Everton star midfielder Steven “Schillo” Pienaar has entered the Relebohile Mofokeng discussion.

[ Pienaar implores Broos to unleash Relebohile Mofokeng at World CupOpens in new window ]

June 8 2026, 16:58

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says he is not bothered by people who filmed their practice match against Jamaica at the weekend.

[ Broos not bothered by people who filmed Bafana’s Jamaica game ahead of Mexico clashOpens in new window ]

June 8 2026, 10:35am

June 8 2026, 7am

June 8 2026, 6.50am

After two days of travel, sports reporter Mahlatse Mphahlele has arrived in Mexico for the 2026 Fifa World Cup. Stay tuned as he brings you all the latest news and updates from Bafana Bafana’s base in Pachuca

June 8 2026, 6.45am

Mexico City resident Manuel Gutierrez on what visitors must expect in the country during the World Cup

June 8 2026, 6.30am

Bafana Bafana supporters brought Mexico City International Airport to a standstill with songs after arrival in the country

June 8 2026, 6am

Bafana meet Mexico in the World Cup opener at the Azteca: here’s what to expect

Just like 16 years ago on that bitterly cold evening at FNB Stadium in Joburg, Bafana Bafana are in the opening match of the Fifa World Cup against Mexico, this time at the Azteca Stadium.

South Africa are making their fourth World Cup appearance and the first since they hosted the tournament in 2010.

Coach Hugo Broos and his men have a monkey on their backs, as they never made it out of the group stages, and their main priority is to get rid of this unwanted record.

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