Former Super Eagles Captain, Sunday Oliseh has attributed South Africa’s disappointing start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup to inability to cope with pressure mounted by the over 80,000 Mexican fans
Oliseh is convinced that South Africa’s collapse on the colourful opening day of the global showpiece had more to do with pressure than football ability.
Bafana Bafana were beaten 2-0 by co-hosts Mexico in the opening match of the tournament at the famous Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The Group A clash attracted a crowd of 80,824 fans and quickly turned into one of the most dramatic opening games in World Cup history.
Despite the scoreline and the disciplinary chaos, Oliseh insisted South Africa are far better than they showed on the night.
Speaking in a podcast clip after the match, the former Nigeria midfielder argued that the occasion itself overwhelmed Hugo Broos’ men.
