World Cup 2026: Mexico coach Javier Aguirre wary of South Africa threat ahead of opener

Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has identified South Africa as the toughest opponent in his side’s World Cup group, praising Bafana Bafana’s unique blend of African flair and European tactical discipline ahead of their opening match next Thursday.

The experienced Mexican tactician believes Hugo Broos’ men will pose a greater challenge than both South Korea and the Czech Republic, the other teams drawn in Group A, as Mexico prepares to begin its campaign on home soil.

Aguirre, who has extensive experience coaching and competing against African teams, spoke highly of the progress made by South Africa under Belgian coach Hugo Broos. He noted that Bafana Bafana have evolved into a well-balanced side capable of troubling any opponent at the tournament.

“South Africa have done well and beat me in the African Cup,” Aguirre told reporters.

“They are a fierce team, not exactly with an African style, but a mix with European football. They have a Belgian coach, Hugo Broos, and some interesting players. I have the utmost respect for them. It won’t be easy.”

His comments reflect the growing respect South Africa have earned on the international stage following a series of impressive performances under Broos. The Belgian coach has transformed Bafana Bafana into a disciplined and organised outfit while maintaining the technical quality and attacking instincts traditionally associated with African football.

Mexico will enter the tournament carrying the expectations of a passionate home crowd, and Aguirre believes playing in front of their own supporters could provide a decisive advantage. Drawing inspiration from history, he referenced England’s famous triumph at the 1966 World Cup, the only time the Three Lions have lifted the trophy.

“That’s what I tell my players, playing at home is priceless,” he said.

“England were champions at home and never again. I have a lot of faith that the fans will encourage us, help us, and that the whole country will be behind us.”

The veteran coach is hoping that a similar wave of national support can inspire Mexico to make a deep run in the competition and potentially challenge for the biggest prize in world football.

Despite the magnitude of the occasion, Aguirre insists he is not feeling nervous ahead of the tournament. Instead, he is embracing the opportunity and relishing the prospect of leading his country on football’s grandest stage.

“Neither one, nervous nor the other (anxious),” he said. “I’m genuinely excited. I’m one of the lucky ones, truly lucky.”

The Mexican manager also expressed confidence in the physical and mental condition of his squad, highlighting the enthusiasm within the camp as the countdown to kick-off continues.

“We are in our best physical, athletic and even mental shape. The players are very excited. None of them has experienced anything like this before. We’re all eager for the moment to arrive.”

With anticipation building across the host nation, Mexico will look to make a strong start when they face South Africa in what Aguirre expects to be a fiercely contested opening fixture. While the hosts are among the favourites to progress from Group A, the Mexican coach’s words underline the respect Bafana Bafana command and the challenge that awaits El Tri in their first test of the tournament.