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The South African government has called on the nation to rally behind Bafana Bafana after the team suffered a 2-0 defeat to Mexico in their World Cup opener, saying the squad should remain focused and confident for the remaining group matches.
“Government commends Bafana Bafana for their spirited performance in their opening match against Mexico in the FIFA World Cup,” the government said in a statement.
“While the final score was not what the nation had hoped for, the team represented South Africa with unity, determination, and a sense of pride on the world’s biggest stage.”
Mexico opened up their World Cup party with a dominant victory over nine-man South Africa on Thursday as the biggest-ever edition of the global football showpiece kicked off at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
Julian Quinones scored the opening goal of the tournament and veteran striker Raul Jimenez added a second as the co-hosts’ bid for qualification from Group A got off to a smooth start.
South Africa never looked like spoiling the opening-day fiesta and finished with only nine men after Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane received red cards.
The Mexican-coloured red, green and white smoke from pre-game fireworks had barely dissipated before Quinones fired the hosts into the lead on nine minutes.
He drilled a low shot through the legs of South Africa goalkeeper and captain Ronwen Williams.
A deafening roar cascaded down from the stands of the Azteca, the footballing cathedral that became the only stadium to host games at three different World Cups.
“We encourage the team, coaching staff and support team to remain focussed and confident as they prepare for the remaining matches in the group stage,” the government said.
“Together, we can inspire our team to greater heights; South Africans are urged to rally behind our boys and cheer them on as they carry the hope of the nation.”
The government called on citizens to wear green and gold on Bafana Fridays and stand united behind the national team throughout their World Cup journey.
“South Africa remains proud of Bafana Bafana and believes in their ability to bounce back stronger,” the statement read.
📰GOVERNMENT ENCOURAGES BAFANA BAFANA TO PRESS ON
Government commends Bafana Bafana for their spirited performance in their opening match against Mexico in the FIFA World Cup. While the final score was not what the nation had hoped for, the team represented South Africa with… pic.twitter.com/IMIgiNT2b7
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 11, 2026
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie also threw his weight behind the team, praising their effort despite the loss.
“You lost like the Champs that you are today, you didn’t humiliate us, you gave undeserved respect to the Mexicans on the field,” McKenzie wrote on X.
“We have a team here that can go very far, let’s not give up on this team South Africa. Let us stand behind our Boyz.”
You lost like the Champs that you are today, you didn’t humiliate us, you gave undeserved respect to the Mexicans on the field. We have a team here that can go very far, let’s not give up on this team South Africa. Let us stand behind our Boyz. pic.twitter.com/DPj3Iy4mmc
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) June 11, 2026
