Bafana Bafana land plum 2026 Fifa World Cup fixture against hosts Mexico, just like in 2010

Bafana Bafana will be in the football spotlight next year after they were drawn to play in the opening match of the 2026 Fifa World Cup against co-hosts Mexico, mirroring the start of the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

The Final Draw, held at the Kennedy Centre in Washington DC on Friday evening, confirmed that coach Hugo Broos and his squad will face Mexico and Korea in Group A. The fourth team will be the winner of a Uefa play-off round featuring Denmark, North Macedonia, the Czech Republic and Ireland, with the qualifier to be confirmed in March 2026.

Back in 2010, South Africa hosted the continent’s first World Cup, and in 2026, Mexico will host the eagerly awaited opening match. Fifa will announce the full fixture list on Saturday evening.

Hosts Mexico will kick off the biggest-ever edition of the World Cup on June 11, 2026 with the first of 104 matches, staged across 16 locations in three countries.

Mexico City Stadium has been confirmed as the venue for the opening fixture, making it the first stadium to host three tournament openers, having staged the opening matches in 1970 and 1986.

The expanded World Cup, featuring 48 teams, will take place across 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Mexico will play all three of their group matches on home soil, with Estadio Guadalajara hosting their second game on Thursday, June 18, before they return to Mexico City Stadium on Wednesday, June 24, for their final group match.

Friday’s favourable draw offers South Africa renewed hope as they strive to reach the knockout phase for the first time in their World Cup history. While the 2010 tournament remains a proud moment for the nation, it also stands as a reminder that Bafana Bafana have yet to advance beyond the group stage.

Their draw in Group A presents challenges but also genuine opportunities. Fixtures against a dynamic Mexican side and a disciplined Korean outfit will demand excellence but leave room for optimism.

South Africa’s rich footballing culture has long been evident, but turning that passion into success on the global stage has proved difficult. The 2026 World Cup represents a valuable chance to reshape that narrative.

The group phase will test their resolve, requiring consistent, high-level performances if they are to secure a place in the knockout rounds.