The two nations will meet at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Thursday in a repeat of the opening fixture from the 2010 World Cup, when the sides played out a 1-1 draw in Johannesburg.
This time, however, Mexico will have home advantage in front of their passionate supporters at one of world football’s most iconic venues.
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According to GOAL, despite Mexico being widely tipped to start the tournament with a victory, Pienaar believes Hugo Broos’ side has the quality to claim all three points and make a statement on the global stage.
“I might get shot in the head if I say this, but I’ll say it, it’s gonna be 2-0 for Bafana Bafana,” said Pienaar.
“And I think this team [SA] is much better than the team we had.”
The former Everton midfielder feels the current Bafana squad compares favourably to the side that featured at the 2010 World Cup and suggested Mexico are not as strong as they were 16 years ago.
“And if I look at the Mexican team, they’re not as good as the team from 2010.
“So, I really think we will win 2-0.”
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Pienaar is among a group of former South African internationals currently in Mexico after taking part in an exhibition match against a team of Mexican legends.
The South African legends were beaten 5-2, but Pienaar said the occasion was more about celebrating football and showing support for both nations ahead of the tournament.
“It was tough but a great experience with the guys just to go out there again, to get the legs going,” he explained.
“At the end of the day, we’re here to support Bafana Bafana and Mexico as a country. It’s been amazing.”
Photo: Lefty Shivambu / Gallo Images
