Itumeleng Khune warns Bafana Bafana: control emotions or risk World Cup collapse

Itumeleng Khune has delivered a firm warning to the Bafana Bafana squad ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, urging players to maintain emotional discipline as they prepare for a demanding group stage against Mexico, Czechia and Korea Republic.

The former captain stressed that mental stability could prove just as decisive as tactical execution on football’s biggest stage, where pressure often overwhelms even seasoned squads.

South Africa open their campaign against co-hosts Mexico at the Mexico City Stadium on Thursday, a fixture widely viewed as a tone-setter for their tournament ambitions. That opener will be followed by a clash with Czechia at the Atlanta Stadium on June 18 before a final group meeting with Korea Republic at the Monterrey Stadium on June 25.

Lessons from 2010 heartbreak

Khune’s perspective is shaped by experience, having been part of South Africa’s 2010 World Cup squad that failed to advance beyond the group stage on home soil. He believes the emotional weight of the tournament remains one of its most underestimated challenges.

“Going into the biggest stage like the World Cup, you will become nervous because you don’t know what to expect from the first game,” he noted, adding that they must be meticulous in their preparations.

His reflection underlines the importance of psychological readiness, particularly for players stepping into their first global tournament under intense scrutiny.

Tough opening against Mexico

The squad has already settled into its base in Pachuca after arriving in Mexico on Tuesday, with preparations including a behind-closed-doors friendly against Jamaica aimed at refining rhythm without external pressure.

Khune insists the opening clash with Mexico will demand composure from the first whistle, especially given the intensity of facing a host nation in a charged environment.

“You just have to control your emotions because each day comes with different challenges. They must make sure their preparations are as smooth as possible. For that opening match against Mexico, they must ensure that they are ready physically, emotionally and mentally,” Khune said.

Preparation disruptions raise concern

South Africa’s build-up has not been entirely smooth, with the squad’s departure delayed by a day due to administrative issues linked to travel documentation. Khune believes such disruptions should have been avoided with better planning.

“It is not nice being a player and knowing that you have done enough for yourself to travel and the next thing you hear there is a change of plans because visas are not ready.”

He added that the timing of the setback was particularly frustrating, given the importance of uninterrupted preparation at this stage of the tournament cycle.

“We knew a long time ago about the tournament and this should have been sorted out. It does play a negative role in their preparations for the players.”

Emotional discipline key message

Despite the logistical challenges and demanding fixture list, Khune’s central message remains consistent: emotional control will define South Africa’s World Cup journey.

He argues that staying mentally composed across all three group matches will be essential if the team is to progress beyond the opening round for the first time in over two decades.