World Cup 2026: My players did not know how to find spaces – South Africa coach Hugo Broos after loss to Mexico

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has criticised his side’s inability to find and exploit space following their 2-0 defeat to Mexico in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage.

The Bafana Bafana were second best for much of the encounter as the hosts imposed their rhythm early, with goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez sealing a deserved win for Mexico.

Broos admitted his team struggled to cope with the intensity from the opening minutes, revealing that basic errors in possession proved costly against a disciplined opposition.

“My players didn’t know how to find the spaces. We were a bit desperate,” he said.

“We were under pressure from the hosts from the first 20 minutes. We made mistakes twice in moments when we didn’t have to lose the ball, and we were punished,” Bross added.

The result leaves South Africa with work to do in Group A as they turn their attention to a crucial second fixture against Czech Republic.

Broos is expected to demand a sharper tactical response in training, with particular focus on composure in midfield and movement off the ball as South Africa look to revive their qualification hopes.