Bafana Bafana Return to the FIFA World Cup After 16 Years
South Africa will return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2010 when Bafana Bafana face co hosts Mexico in the opening match of the tournament on Thursday, 11 June 2026.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico and will feature 48 teams for the first time in the competition’s history. South Africa qualified automatically after finishing top of their CAF qualifying group ahead of Nigeria.
The tournament matters to millions of South Africans who have waited 16 years to see Bafana Bafana back on football’s biggest stage. It also marks South Africa’s fourth World Cup appearance and the first time the national team has qualified on merit since 2002.
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South Africa’s Road to Qualification
South Africa secured qualification after finishing first in CAF Group C, which included Nigeria, Benin, Zimbabwe, Rwanda and Lesotho.
According to FIFA’s qualification format, only the group winners are automatically qualified for the World Cup. Despite being deducted points for fielding an ineligible player in a qualifier against Lesotho, South Africa recovered to finish top of the standings.
The qualification campaign was one of the country’s strongest in recent years and reinforced the progress made under head coach Hugo Broos.
Key qualification facts include:
• South Africa finished ahead of Nigeria
• Bafana Bafana won five qualifying matches
• The team qualified for its fourth FIFA World Cup
• It is South Africa’s first World Cup appearance since 2010
Who Is South Africa’s Head Coach?
Belgian coach Hugo Broos will lead South Africa at the tournament.
Broos has been in charge since 2021 and is widely credited with rebuilding the national team. According to international football reports, the 74-year-old coach plans to retire after the World Cup.
His tenure has included a third place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations and qualification for the World Cup. Several younger players have also emerged under his leadership.
South Africa’s Group A Opponents
Bafana Bafana have been drawn in Group A alongside:
• Mexico
• Czech Republic
• South Korea
South Africa’s opening match against Mexico carries historical significance. The two teams also met in the opening game of the 2010 FIFA World Cup at Soccer City in Johannesburg, where the match ended in a draw after Siphiwe Tshabalala scored one of the most iconic goals in World Cup history.
Bafana Bafana Fixtures at FIFA World Cup 2026
South Africa’s group stage fixtures are:
Mexico vs South Africa
11 June 2026
21:00 SAST
Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
Czech Republic vs South Africa
18 June 2026
18:00 SAST
Atlanta, United States
South Africa vs South Korea
25 June 2026
03:00 SAST
Monterrey, Mexico
The Mexico match will officially open the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
How the New 48 Team World Cup Format Works
The 2026 edition introduces a significantly expanded format.
The tournament now consists of 48 teams divided into 12 groups of four teams each.
Teams will play three group matches. The top two teams from every group will automatically qualify for the knockout stage.
In addition, the eight best third placed teams across all groups will also advance.
This means South Africa could still progress even if they finish third in Group A, provided they collect enough points and maintain a strong goal difference.
Players to Watch in the South African Squad
Several players are expected to play key roles for Bafana Bafana.
Ronwen Williams
The captain and goalkeeper remain one of Africa’s most respected shot stoppers. He gained international recognition after saving four penalties in a single Africa Cup of Nations shootout.
Teboho Mokoena
The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder is considered one of South Africa’s most influential players. He contributes defensively and offensively and is known for his powerful long-range shooting.
Lyle Foster
The Burnley striker is expected to lead the attack and brings valuable European experience to the squad.
Oswin Appollis
The Orlando Pirates winger enters the tournament in strong form and could provide creativity and goals from wide areas.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
Gauteng remains the heartland of South African football, with many of Bafana Bafana’s players representing local clubs such as Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Kaizer Chiefs.
The World Cup provides an opportunity for residents across Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni to support the national team during one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
Local fan parks, viewing venues and public screenings are expected to attract thousands of supporters as South Africa looks to progress beyond the group stage for the first time in its history.
For younger football fans, the tournament also offers a chance to see local players compete against some of the biggest names in world football.
Can South Africa Reach the Knockout Stages?
South Africa have never progressed beyond the group stage at a FIFA World Cup.
However, the expanded format gives Bafana Bafana a better chance than in previous tournaments.
Football analysts note that Mexico are favourites to top Group A, while South Africa, South Korea and the Czech Republic appear more evenly matched.
A strong result against either South Korea or the Czech Republic could place Bafana Bafana in contention for a knockout stage place.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does South Africa play their first World Cup match?
South Africa face Mexico on 11 June 2026 at 21:00 SAST.
How many teams are playing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
A record 48 teams are participating.
Who is South Africa’s coach?
Belgian coach Hugo Broos leads Bafana Bafana.
Can South Africa qualify if they finish third in their group?
Yes. The eight best third placed teams will advance to the knockout stage.
Who is South Africa’s captain?
Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams captains the national team.
South Africa Ready for the Global Stage
Bafana Bafana arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup carrying the hopes of a football nation eager to see the team compete at the highest level once again.
With a mix of experienced leaders, emerging talent and a coach who has overseen a significant revival, South Africa enters the tournament aiming to make history by reaching the knockout stages for the first time.
The challenge begins against Mexico on 11 June, as Bafana Bafana return to football’s biggest stage after a 16-year wait.
