Bafana skipper says facing Mexico in the opener provides perfect World Cup stimulus

Williams was reacting to the draw that placed Bafana in Group A alongside Mexico, South Korea and a European playoff winner — Denmark, North Macedonia, Ireland or the Czech Republic. 

Bafana’s clash with Mexico is a repeat of the 2010 World Cup opener, and once again it will be played on the 11th of June. 

Williams says that alone gives the squad an emotional lift.

"Yeah, amazing, obviously it's a replay of the 2010 World Cup. Now roles are reversed, we are gonna be away and obviously we know how difficult it is but it's always nice, you want to play a host nation because you get that feel, you get the atmosphere, you feel the electricity, the energy and I'm excited and I'm happy,” Williams said. 

“I think it's a good draw, I think it's one that people shouldn't look at names but just know that being there it's gonna be tough. We shouldn't start collecting points before we do the job, we need to have that mindset and also believe that we can go out there and give a good account of ourselves."

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The 11th of June 2010 is remembered across South Africa as Siphiwe Tshabalala Day, after his iconic opening strike against Mexico at FNB Stadium. 

The Bafana legend has also reacted to the déjà-vu moment that he had predicted.

"It's déjà vu, right, same stage World Cup, same opponent, opening game, same date, same month as well. I think I called it prior to the draw that my wish is we get drawn against Mexico and it happened,” Tshabala said.

“So, it's an interesting draw. It's a draw that might look easy on paper but it's a very tough draw but as South Africa I think we do have a chance. Our opening game is a return leg, we are playing away and we have a score to settle."

Bafana assistant coach Helman Mkhalele says one of the biggest challenges they must prepare for is the atmosphere at the Azteca Stadium — one of world football’s most intimidating and passionate cathedrals. 

Mkhalele says managing that environment will be crucial.

"Having the draw today coming out that we are playing our first game against Mexico, the first reaction that I have, I said wow, it's gonna be a repeat of what happened in 2010 during the FIFA World Cup opening here at home,” Mkhalele said. 

“So, it will be a repeat but the slight difference will be looking at their fans, they are more enthusiastic so we will be faced with the challenges that we need to overcome on and off the field."