Teboho Mokoena should be the starter in South Africa’s midfield in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 29-year-old midfielder, from Mamelodi Sundowns, is one of Hugo Broos’ main tactical references 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 January 24, 1997 in Bethlehem, Free State, Teboho Michael Mokoena is 1.76m tall and stands out for his strength in marking, reading the game, ability to steal the ball and leadership. An experienced player in the South African Premiership, he is consistently called up by Bafana Bafana and arrives at the World Cup as one of the most important names in the squad.
Mokoena’s trajectory and moment
Trained at SuperSport United and with a remarkable spell at Mamelodi Sundowns since 2022, Mokoena is going through a solid phase in the 2025/2026 season, with 4 goals and 2 assists in 23 games in the Premiership. In the national team, he is a fundamental player in midfield, helping to balance defense and attack. His presence in the historic debut symbolizes the experience and tactical discipline needed to face favorites Mexico, in the now reversed 2010 World Cup opening match.
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 thousand Mexican fans at the legendary Azteca, Bafana Bafana is betting on tactical discipline, quick counterattacks and Mokoena’s work to protect the defense and initiate transitions against the Mexican midfield.
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, Mothobi Mvala (or Okon), Nkosinathi Sibisi, 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.