Bafana Bafana starting XI vs Mexico: Broos opts for back three in World Cup opener

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has gone for an experienced side top face Mexico in their 2026 World Cup opener on Thursday night, pulling a surprise by opting for a back three.

South Africa have a tough assignment against the World Cup co-hosts as they will play in front of a partisan crowd of over 80,000 fans at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.

Broos has gone for the tried and tested, opting for a three-man defence in his starting XI as captain Ronwen Williams starts in goal.

In central defence, Mbekezeli Mbokazi will partner Ime Okon and Nkosinathi Sibisi in a back three while Khuliso Mudau starts at right wing-back and Aubrey Modiba at left wing-back, having won the fitness race.

Who else makes Bafana’s starting XI?

In central midfield, Broos has gone with the Mamelodi Sundowns’ Teboho Mokeona and Portugal-based Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole while Jayden Adams will be the most advanced midfielder in his midfield three.

There is no room for No.10s or wingers in the starting XI as Broos has gone with two strikers, trusting Lyle Foster and Iqraam Rayners with the duty of scoring goals.

Broos will be hoping that his side does not get intimidated by the hostile atmosphere and start the tournament positively as they look to seal a place in the knockout round for the fist time in South Africa’s World Cup history.