It’s Déjà Vu – Simphiwe Tshabalala After Bafana Bafana Draw Mexico in World Cup

History will repeat itself in dramatic fashion when Bafana Bafana open their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against hosts Mexico on 11 June at the iconic Estadio Azteca.

The fixture mirrors the unforgettable 2010 World Cup opener in Johannesburg, where South Africa faced Mexico on the exact same date.

For many South Africans, the memory of that day remains vivid, especially the thunderous strike from Simphiwe Tshabalala, who etched his name into football folklore with one of the most iconic goals in World Cup history.

Speaking to SuperSport TV at a watch party in Braamfontein on Friday night, Tshabalala reflected on the remarkable coincidence.

“It’s déjà vu, right? Same stage, World Cup, same opponent, same date and month,” he said.

Tshabalala confirmed that he will travel to Mexico to witness the historic rematch in person.

“I will be there in Mexico in that first game supporting Bafana Bafana. This is a match I can’t miss and hope the score will be different this time. I told Mohau Nkota this is his time to write his own piece of history. Scoring in the opening match is an incredible feeling, a moment that I will cherish forever.”

The parallels between 2010 and 2026 add a layer of nostalgia and anticipation for South African fans. In 2010, Tshabalala’s goal united the nation and became a symbol of pride. Now, with Bafana once again opening against Mexico, the opportunity exists for a new generation, led by rising talents like Mohau Nkota, to create their own unforgettable moment.

As the countdown to June 11 begins, the echoes of Tshabalala’s strike will linger, reminding fans of the magic of football and the power of history repeating itself.