Bafana Relive 2010 World Cup Opener as Williams Targets Knockout Breakthrough

Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams reacted with excitement to their 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage draw, though he acknowledges they’ll need to dig deep to get the results they want.

Familiar Opponent and a Touch of Déjà Vu

Bafana have been drawn in Group A for next year’s global showpiece, alongside co-hosts Mexico, South Korea, and the winner of the play-off between Denmark, North Macedonia, the Czech Republic, and the Republic of Ireland.

South Africa will face Mexico in the opening game at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11 (10pm, kick-off). It’s déjà vu - the same opening fixture and date as the 2010 World Cup at Soccer City (now FNB Stadium).

“It’s amazing,” Williams said. “Obviously, it’s the replay of the 2010 World Cup, but now the roles are reversed, and we are going to be away.

“We know how difficult it is, but it’s always nice because you are going to play the host nation, and you get to experience the atmosphere and the energy. I am excited and happy.”

Broos’ Full-Circle Moment in Mexico

Bafana will be based in Mexico, though they’ll travel to Atlanta for their second match before facing South Korea in Monterrey.

The Mexican setting is significant for coach Hugo Broos: he played his first World Cup with Belgium in the 1986 edition, also held in Mexico. With the 73-year-old set to retire after this tournament, the host nation will carry special meaning for Broos, and even more so if Bafana reach the knockout stage.

Respect for Opponents

Williams maintains confidence in Bafana’s chances, but warns against underestimating any side.

“I think it’s a good draw,” he said. “People shouldn’t judge by names; every team there is tough.

“We shouldn’t think we are guaranteed points before we’ve played. We must have the right mindset and believe we can give a good account of ourselves.”

AFCON Comes First

Before focusing fully on the World Cup, Bafana must tackle the Africa Cup of Nations this month. They aim to build on their third-place finish in the previous edition and carry momentum into 2026.

“The most important thing now is AFCON,” said Williams, whose team is drawn in Group B with Egypt, Zimbabwe and Angola.

“We know the expectations the team and the country have. We need full focus if we want to do well and win it. We can’t think ahead - a lot can still change before then.”

Bafana’s 2026 World Cup Fixtures:

• 11 June: Mexico vs Bafana Bafana - Estadio Azteca, 10pm (Mexico)
• 18 June: Play-off Winner vs Bafana Bafana - Mercedes-Benz Stadium, 7pm (USA)
• 24 June: Bafana Bafana vs South Korea - Estadio BBVA, 4am (Mexico)

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