World Cup 2026: I knew South Africa will lose to Mexico from their lineup – Mohamed Aboutrika

African football legend, Mohamed Aboutrika, has indicated that he was not surprised South Africa suffered a defeat to Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Bafana Bafana lost 2-0 to the co-host on Thursday at the Estadio Azteca, in a contest that produced three red cards; two to South Africa and one to Mexico.

Analysing the match at full-time, Aboutrika blamed the defeat on Hugo Broos, insisting that the starting eleven of the coach was not the best.

“He’s afraid of the game. It’s the first match, so he’s scared. He went too defensive and right from the lineup, I knew he would lose. I put the blame on the coach. A disastrous match,” the former Egypt star told BeiN Sports.

Aboutrika continued, “I am shocked as an African because this team deserves to play much better with the qualities they have. Mexico isn’t that special.” Strong words from Aboutrika, who clearly believes Bafana Bafana underperformed and left too much on the table in the opener.”

Following the opening day defeat, South Africa will hope for better results against Czechia and South Korea to stand any chance of advancing to the knockout stage of the tournament.