Mohau Nkota aims to replicate Tshabalala magic in Fifa World Cup 2026 opener

The echoes of the exhilarating 2010 Fifa World Cup still resonate in the hearts of South Africans, and for Bafana Bafana winger Mohau Nkota, those memories are more vivid than ever.

As South Africa prepares to take on Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, the 21-year-old former Orlando Pirates player is inspired to emulate Kaizer Chiefs legend Siphiwe Tshabalala, who scored the memorable opening goal against Mexico 16 years ago.

Tshabalala’s thunderous strike on June 11, 2010 not only illuminated Soccer City but also ignited a wave of national pride, marking the start of Africa’s first-ever World Cup. During that game, South Africa led until former Barcelona star Rafael Marquez equalised, leaving the match at 1-1.

Now, with history set to repeat itself, Nkota feels the weight of that legacy and is determined to create his own unforgettable moment. He has studied videos of Tshabalala’s goal countless times.

“I want to score the opening goal of the 2026 World Cup,” Nkota declared confidently in an interview following the announcement of the fixture. His eagerness to contribute to the team’s success is palpable, coupled with an understanding of the immense challenge ahead.

“I won’t say it’s easy. The participating teams are all the best teams, but for us, it’s just to go and prove ourselves, raise our hands, and we will do better in the games,” Nkota stated, blending optimism with realism.

As South Africa prepares to kick off a journey that many hope will lead to the knockout stages for the first time in history, Nkota’s aspirations reflect a deep-seated hunger to inspire a nation. With thousands of Mexican fans expected to fill the stadium, the challenge will be formidable, yet the young winger’s determination reveals a bold spirit ready to shine in the spotlight.

Nkota’s journey, which began at Orlando Pirates, has been marked by progression and promise, making him one to watch as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches. He is motivated not only by personal goals but also by a desire to unite his country through sport, channelling the energy and passion that Tshabalala once sparked during that historic tournament.

With the World Cup stage set and the echoes of past glories ringing in their ears, Mohau Nkota and Bafana Bafana will enter the fray with hope, ambition, and an unyielding desire to etch their names in the annals of history.