Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has hailed South Africa’s quality and warned his side against complacency ahead of their World Cup opener on Thursday.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament – the 23rd edition of the mundial, will commence later today with co-host Mexico facing South Africa in a repeat of the 2010 opening match which was hosted in the African country.
That match ended in a 1-1 draw, although stakes are much higher this time around and Mexico will be buoyed by the home support at the Estadio Azteca.
Related: 2026 FIFA World Cup draws in full
Mexico are one of the three hosts of the tournament, alongside United States and Canada, in what will be the biggest edition of the showpiece event so far.
Aguirre warns Mexico of South Africa’s threat
Speaking during an interview, Javier Aguirre has charged his side to go all out against South Africa and avoid underestimating them.
Mexico are favourites heading into this clash given their fine form and will be hoping their campaign with a win over the African side.
“South African football has certainly evolved and improved. They’re playing the [CAF Champions League] in Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, the other day”, the Mexico coach said.
“We are very respectful of South Africa, there’s no such thing as a small rival these days, but we’re not afraid of them.
“I love their fans as well. Are they bringing their vuvuzelas? I don’t know, but I know they love to dance, they love to wear headdresses, so I love them.”
The Mexico boss also expressed admiration for South Africa head coach Hugo Broos, who led the country to a return to the World Cup for the first time since they last won the tournament.
“I respect Hugo Broos very much,” Aguirre continued.
“He gave the South Africa team a big structure, and he has had these Orlando Pirates players, these Mamelodi Sundowns players since they were young.
“A lot of them have grown together, and they’ve done well in the Africa Cup. [This player Relebohile] Mofokeng, I really like him. He’ll go to Europe, he’s like [Mexico midfielder Gilberto] Mora, a real player.”
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will kickoff today with Mexico facing off against South Africa, with kickoff slated for 8 PM West African Time.
