Bafana Bafana will officially begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against co-hosts Mexico on 11 June at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, following the tournament’s opening ceremony.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Mexico, Canada and the United States, marks South Africa’s return to football’s biggest stage after years of rebuilding under head coach Hugo Broos.
Speaking to CapeTalk, former Bafana Bafana defender and 2010 FIFA World Cup player Matthew Booth reflected on South Africa’s preparations ahead of the historic 2010 tournament hosted on home soil. Booth described the preparation process as “unprecedented”, revealing that SAFA shut down the domestic league for nearly five months to allow the squad to focus entirely on World Cup readiness.
“We spent a month in Brazil and another month in Germany, away from our families. It was difficult, but everyone was committed to the cause,” Booth said.
He praised Hugo Broos for restoring national pride and consistency within the squad, highlighting Bafana’s recent performances at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and their qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
However, Booth also raised concerns over South Africa’s current planning and preparation strategy. He questioned the quality of opposition in recent and upcoming international friendlies, arguing that stronger competition is needed before the tournament begins.
South Africa recently faced Cameroon during the AFCON knockout stages and played two home friendlies against Panama. Upcoming fixtures against Nicaragua and Puerto Rico have also raised questions about whether Bafana are receiving adequate high-level preparation ahead of the global tournament.
Booth cautioned against underestimating smaller football nations, noting that many countries now strengthen their squads through talented diaspora players competing in top international leagues.
Despite those concerns, excitement continues to build as Bafana Bafana prepare for their biggest football challenge in over a decade.