Mexico v South Africa – predictions and odds – 2026 World Cup (11 June 2026)

The World Cup is back in our lives, and that’s great news for all of us who love the sport. The World Cup is a fascinating competition that warms the heart and will kick off in style at the majestic and imposing Azteca Stadium in Mexico City with the clash between Mexico and South Africa, a match that is a repeat of the opening fixture from the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

‘El Tricolor’ will be looking to get the better of South Africa and give their passionate supporters something to cheer about with a win at the Azteca, which would put them in a strong position to qualify for the round of 16. Javier Aguirre’s side are favourites, no doubt about it, but we must bear in mind that the nerves and pressure the Mexican players will face during the match will be considerable, so I wouldn’t rule out at all that, beyond a Mexican victory, we might see goals at both ends and a back-and-forth affair at times.

South Africa are a team without standout individuals who prioritise the unit. The ‘Bafana Bafana’ like to win the ball back and launch counter-attacks, relying on two key players: Lyle Foster and Oswin Appollis. Mexico, for their part, will look to dominate the match with Álvaro Fidalgo (an Asturian player who has been naturalised as a Mexican) looking to set up the forwards, where Raúl Jiménez and Santiago Giménez must step up in this World Cup.