The “Spirit of 2010” is officially heading to North America. In a move designed to bridge South Africa’s historic hosting of the tournament with its triumphant return to the global stage, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has confirmed that the 2010 Bafana Bafana squad will travel to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This initiative, a collaboration between the South African and Mexican governments, aims to provide morale and veteran support as Bafana Bafana prepares to face Mexico in the opening match—a poetic mirror of the 2010 opener at Soccer City.
A Diplomatic and Sporting Collaboration
Minister McKenzie highlighted that this isn’t just a trip down memory lane, but a strategic move to inspire the current crop of players.
“It’s a collaboration between the SA government and the Mexican government,” McKenzie stated. “We want a result there.”
The 2010 legends will be joined by the 16 “Lucky Fans” recently announced by the Ministry, creating a massive South African presence in the stands of the iconic Estadio Azteca.
The Class of 2010: Where the Legends Are Now
The squad traveling to Mexico includes some of the most iconic names in South African football history. From the safe hands of Itumeleng Khune to the legendary goal-scorer Siphiwe Tshabalala, the group represents the last time South Africa competed on the world stage.
The Full 2010 Traveling Delegation:
- Goalkeepers: Itumeleng Khune, Moeneeb Josephs, Shuaib Walters.
- Defenders: Siboniso Gaxa, Aaron Mokoena, Matthew Booth, Bongani Khumalo, Siyabonga Sangweni, Tsepo Masilela, Lucas Thwala. (Note: The late Anele Ngcongca is remembered with honor).
- Midfielders: Teko Modise, Lance Davids, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, MacBeth Sibaya, Thanduyise Khuboni, Kagiso Dikgacoi, Steven Pienaar, Siphiwe Tshabalala.
- Strikers: Surprise Moriri, Bernard Parker, Katlego Mphela, Siyabonga Nomvethe.
Bafana Bafana’s Path in Group A (SA Times)
With the legends in their corner, Hugo Broos’ men face a challenging but exciting group stage:
- Thu, 11 June: Mexico vs South Africa (Estadio Azteca, Mexico City) – 21:00
- Thu, 18 June: Czech Republic vs South Africa (Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta) – 18:00
- Thu, 25 June: South Africa vs South Korea (Estadio BBVA, Guadalupe) – 03:00
Should Bafana Bafana advance, they could face a Round of 32 clash in either Mexico City (June 30) or Los Angeles (June 28), depending on their final group standing.
