FIFA World Cup 2026™ | Bafana walloped by hosts Mexico in opening fixture

South Africa's first appearance at a World Cup in 16 years was a baptism of fire, and a rude awakening.

Bafana suffered a 2-nil defeat to co-hosts Mexico in the opening match in Mexico City.

Coach Hugo Broos adopted an ultra-defensive approach, but Bafana were easily unlocked by Mexico, looked disjointed upfront, and lacked both creativity and bite against.

The team was also reduced to nine men in a match that ended with just 19 players on the field.

SABC News Sports Reporter, Mawande Mateza has more from Mexico City, Mexico.

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