South Africa national football team Bafana Bafana's 2026 FIFA World Cup debut was a nightmare from start to finish, with a 2-0 loss to Mexico in the opening game. The team went 1-0 down in the ninth minute after Sphephelo Sithole was caught in possession on the edge of his penalty area, and the midfielder was then sent off in the second half. Forward Themba Zwane also saw red in Mexico City as the co-hosts strolled to a comfortable win. Former captain Dean Furman told BBC Radio 5 Live that South Africa were just miles off it, with no player able to hold their hand up and say they did themselves justice. Mexico were in total control from minute one, looking more assured and calm in possession. South Africa's skipper Ronwen Williams admitted it had been a tough afternoon in the Estadio Azteca, but was pleased with how his side kept fighting. The team's approach was overly defensive, according to Nicholas Makomene, who thought there was no need to park the bus. Coach Hugo Broos took issue with the second dismissal, which came after a video assistant referee review. However, Furman felt that Zwane deserved to be sent off for violent conduct after swinging his arm into Roberto Alvarado's face. The loss was a disappointing start to the World Cup for South African fans, who expected a lot more from the team. Relebogile Lairi described it as a very disappointing start, adding that supporters suffered stage fright. The team will need to regroup and refocus for their next game, with a tough road ahead in the tournament. South Africa's next match will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing to the next round. The team's mentality and character were on display as they kept fighting despite being down two players. But it was not enough to overcome the strong Mexican team, who looked like a well-oiled machine. The loss was a tough pill to swallow for the South African team, but they will need to bounce back quickly if they want to make a deep run in the tournament.