World Cup: Bafana drawn with Mexico, Korea and Play-off entrant

South Africa will begin their return to the world stage against co-hosts Mexico national football team, opening a 2026 World Cup campaign that brings a sense of déjà vu — mirroring their 2010 opener.

Placed in Group A alongside Korea Republic and a yet-to-be-determined play-off side, Bafana Bafana face a challenging path but also a historic return after a long absence.

The 2026 World Cup draw was held in Washington, D.C., finalising the 12 groups of four under the expanded 48-team format. The draw procedure ensured that the host nations — United States national soccer team, Mexico and Canada national soccer team — were pre-allocated to separate groups.

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Bafana Bafana were drawn into Group A, alongside Mexico, Korea Republic national football team and the winner of “Play-Off Path D” (which will be either the winner of the tie between Czech Republic national football team or Republic of Ireland national football team, and the winner of the tie between Denmark national football team or North Macedonia national football team).

The draw sets up a high-stakes start for South Africa: facing a host nation in Mexico for the opener evokes strong memories of their 2010 home-World Cup debut — a scenario loaded with pressure and expectation.

While Korea Republic represents a significant challenge, the third slot — the Play-off Path D winner — adds unpredictable variables. Given the potential depth and quality of European contenders that could emerge from that path, Bafana may need to treat the fixture as a fourth high-level test rather than a presumed easier match.

With the expanded format, the top two teams in each group — plus the best third-placed sides — advance to a Round of 32. This structure gives Bafana a realistic shot at progressing even if they finish third, but consistency and discipline will be critical.