South Africa’s World Cup dream crashed out of the gate as Mexico handed Bafana Bafana a bruising 2-0 defeat, a result many Africans openly celebrated amid growing anger over xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.
Mexico wasted no time imposing themselves at Estadio Azteca, with Julián Quiñones firing the hosts ahead in the ninth minute before Raúl Jiménez buried South Africa’s hopes with a 67th-minute header.
The defeat turned into a nightmare for Bafana Bafana, who finished the match with just nine players. Sithole saw red in the 49th minute for denying a clear scoring chance, while substitute Themba Zwane was sent off after a VAR review found he had struck an opponent.
Mexico also lost César Montes to a straight red card in stoppage time, but the damage had already been done.
As the final whistle blew, social media lit up with celebrations from across Africa, where many fans had openly rallied behind Mexico instead of their continental neighbours.
The reactions come against the backdrop of renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with many Africans accusing the country of turning its back on fellow citizens of the continent.
Comments on SABC Sport’s Facebook page were flooded with messages celebrating Bafana Bafana’s defeat, with some users saying the result was deserved while others declared they would support any team facing South Africa.
One user wrote: “Today I am Mexican. Viva Mexico! South Africa must learn that Africa is one family.”
Another commented: “When fellow Africans are chased and attacked, don’t expect the continent to support you. Congratulations Mexico.”
The match also comes as several countries, including Malawi, intensify efforts to repatriate citizens caught up in the escalating violence.
