The stage is set for Hugo Broos' men to pen a new chapter in Mzansi folklore when they lock horns with Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Thursday evening. With the global showpiece finally upon them and the co-hosts standing in their way, Bafana will be eager to hit the ground running despite a tense build-up that has intensified the spotlight on their attacking department. Among those expected to shoulder the goalscoring burden is the former Orlando Pirates striker, with the 25-year-old tasked with leading the line and providing the cutting edge needed to fire Broos' charges to a dream start on the world stage.

Former Buccaneers midfielder Steve Lekoelea believes the trio of young Pirates stars are destined to leave for Europe following a successful season in which they proved themselves by winning the league and ensured they will get global exposure playing in the quadrennial tournament.

South Africa's head coach has warned his side that they must be at their absolute best to survive a hostile crowd and a good team when they step out to face El Tri on Thursday. After admitting he was impressed by the co-host's 5-1 demolition of Serbia in their most recent warm up match, he told the media that his team will be ready to fight for a result with everything they have.

Former South Africa international Reneilwe Letsholonyane believes the 21-year-old midfielder has all the tools to become a breakout star at the upcoming global showpiece. The Orlando Pirates sensation enters the tournament with high expectations following a domestic treble-winning season with the Buccaneers.

The South Africa coach has admitted that his squad is entering uncharted territory as they prepare to face the 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosts in a daunting opening fixture at the legendary Estadio Azteca on Thursday to kick off the global showpiece in front of an expected capacity, partisan crowd.