2026 World Cup: South Africa, first African team in action, fails in its entry against Mexico

South Africa, the first African team to play in the 2026 World Cup, lost 2-0 to Mexico on June 11. They conceded a goal in the 9th minute due to a mistake by Sthephelo Sitholé, and a second in the 67th minute by Raúl Jiménez. Sitholé and Thembo Zwane were sent off, leaving the team with nine players. Mexico dominated with 87,000 supporters and a strong performance.