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The two sides will meet for a second time in a World Cup opener, mirroring the historic tournament curtain-raiser from 2010 when South Africa hosted the global showpiece.
The excitement is palpable in Mexico City as the host nation prepares to kick off the FIFA World Cup against South Africa. The two sides will meet for a second time in a World Cup opener, mirroring the historic tournament curtain-raiser from 2010 when South Africa hosted the global showpiece.
On that day, the two nations shared the spoils in a memorable 1-1 draw at FNB Stadium. The contrasting paths of both squads add a dramatic layer to this tournament opener. Hugo Broos' men enter the clash in shaky form, having failed to secure a victory in their last five matches leading up to the tournament.
Historically, Bafana Bafana have struggled on opening day, yet to win a World Cup opener following a 3-0 defeat to France in 1998, a 2-2 stalemate with Paraguay in 2002 and the 2010 draw against El Tri. Mexico, meanwhile, manages to strike form at the perfect time under Javier Aguirre. The tournament hosts cruised through their warm-up campaign with three consecutive wins, registering eight goals while letting in just one.
Here is how both teams line up for the big match, alongside the national caps for each starting player:Javier Aguirre sets up a balanced, dangerous side with a wealth of international experience across the pitch.
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