Bafana Bafana faces a daunting challenge against 15th-ranked Mexico in their FIFA World Cup opener on June 11 at Estadio Azteca, with their best hope lying in quick counter-attacks despite being massive underdogs. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Playing in the opening game of a FIFA World Cup comes with immense pressure, not only for the host nation but also for their opponents. But what can South Africans expect from Bafana Bafana against Mexico on June 11?
Kick-off at the Estadio Azteca is at 9pm SA time.
It's a rematch of the 2010 FIFA World Cup opener when South Africa were the hosts. On that occasion, Bafana took a spectacular lead through a Siphiwe Tshabalala wonder strike, only to be forced to settle for a draw after Mexico equalised 11 minutes from time.
Fifteen years later, to the day, Bafana will face Mexico again. This time, however, they will be hard-pressed to get anything from the match.
