What Bafana Bafana can expect from Group A rivals at 2026 Fifa World Cup

For many footballers, a career is defined by key milestones, and for Bafana Bafana, their 3-0 triumph over Rwanda to secure qualification for the 2026 Fifa World Cup represented the realisation of lifelong ambitions.

For players, simply taking part on football’s biggest stage is a moment to cherish, and for this squad, it was a dream come true.

With the World Cup draw now complete, South Africa will face some of the world’s top talent while also enjoying the honour of opening the tournament — a feat they last achieved 16 years ago at the iconic FNB Stadium during the 2010 World Cup, which they hosted on home soil.

In a poetic twist, Bafana will begin their campaign against the same opponents they faced in that historic opening match: Mexico. As one of the host nations, "El Tri" were paired against South Africa, setting the stage for a high-profile encounter filled with symbolism and expectation.

Facing the hosts: An opportunity to make a statement

Facing a host nation always comes with its pressures. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd can test any side, but Mexico are well-versed in managing expectations. Ranked 15th in the latest Fifa standings, they have consistently progressed beyond the group stages, with their best tournament finish reaching the quarter-finals. Their experience, tactical discipline, and attacking prowess make them formidable opponents in any setting.

Korea Republic: A tactically unpredictable threat

South Africa will also encounter Korea Republic, a team with eleven previous World Cup appearances. Korea themselves hosted the 2002 tournament, reaching the semi-finals in an impressive campaign. Currently ranked 22nd in the Fifa world rankings, the Asian side brings a level of unpredictability to Group A, as the two teams have limited history against one another and little exposure to each other’s domestic leagues. This unfamiliarity makes the clash tactically intriguing and likely to challenge both sides’ adaptability.

The Uefa playoff contenders: A final piece of the puzzle

The fourth team in Group A will emerge from the Uefa playoffs, which conclude at the end of March. While the final participant remains unknown, it is expected to make the group even more competitive. Denmark, Czechia, North Macedonia, or the Republic of Ireland could join Bafana, with Denmark most likely to progress from Path D.

Any of these sides will present a challenge. Denmark carries World Cup history with South Africa, having played to a 1-1 draw at the 2002 tournament, while Czechia, North Macedonia, and the Republic of Ireland are capable of producing strong performances.

Regardless of who advances, the group has already shown that for Hugo Broos and his men, nothing will come easy, and if they are to make their first appearance outside the group phase, they will need to do it the hard way.