Mbekezeli Mbokazi should be a starter in South Africa’s defense in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 20-year-old central defender, from Chicago Fire, in the United States, is one of Hugo Broos’ big promises for the duel against Mexico, this Thursday (11), at the Azteca Stadium, in Mexico City. Kick-off is scheduled for 4pm (Brasília time).
Born on September 19, 2005 in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal, Mbekezeli Mfanufikile Mbokazi, known as “TLB” (for his strength similar to a backhoe), is 1.77m tall and stands out for his physical imposingness, precise tackles, early leadership and good passing with his left foot. Bafana Bafana’s young defensive pillar, he arrives at the World Cup after a rapid rise in South African football.
Mbokazi’s trajectory and moment
Revealed in the youth categories of Orlando Pirates, where he captained the under-23 team and promoted to the main team in 2025, Mbokazi transferred to the Chicago Fire in January 2026 for around 2.5 million euros. In MLS, he started 12 games this season and gained prominence with solid performances, including being voted into the MLS All-Star Game. In the national team, with recent call-ups and confirmed presence in the squad for 2026, he represents the new generation of South African defenders, bringing fresh energy to contain the Mexican attack in the historic reunion of the 2010 opening.
South Africa is looking for points away from home in Group A, which also includes South Korea and the Czech Republic. In front of more than 87,000 Mexican fans at the legendary Azteca, Bafana Bafana is betting on tactical discipline, quick counterattacks and the solidity of Mbokazi alongside teammates like Ime Okon or Olwethu Makhanya to maintain the host’s favoritism in the expanded competition.
Probable lineups
Mexico (4-3-3): Raúl Rangel; Jorge Sánchez (or Israel Reyes), César Montes, Johan Vásquez, Jesús Gallardo; Erik Lira, Álvaro Fidalgo (or Edson Álvarez), Roberto Alvarado; Brian Gutiérrez, Raúl Jiménez, Julián Quiñones.
South Africa (4-2-3-1): Ronwen Williams; Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon (or Olwethu Makhanya),Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Aubrey Modiba; Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole; Themba Zwane, Elias Mokwana (or Oswin Appollis), Oswin Appollis; Lyle Foster.
Wilton Pereira Sampaio in arbitration
Brazilian Wilton Pereira Sampaio leads the match, with assistants Bruno Pires and Bruno Boschilia. It is the first time that a Brazilian referee has refereed the opening of a World Cup.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, transmission will be widespread. TV Globo and SBT show it live on open TV. SporTV, NSports and ge (Globoplay) cover closed TV and streaming. CazéTV, on YouTube, also broadcasts the game.
