South Africa's return to the FIFA World Cup after a 16-year absence ended in disappointment as Bafana Bafana went down 2-nil to co-hosts Mexico in the opening match at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on Thursday. Julian Quinones put Mexico ahead early before Raul Jimenez sealed the victory with a second-half header. Hugo Broos' side struggled to impose themselves, creating few clear-cut opportunities and offering little threat in attack. The challenge became even greater when Sphephelo Sithole and Themba Zwane were both sent off, reducing South Africa to nine men. Mexico's Cesar Montes also received a late red card. Meanwhile, the 2026 World Cup has already faced off-field challenges linked to visa delays, travel bans and entry restrictions. Somali referee Omar Artan, who was set to become the first official from Somalia to feature at a World Cup, was denied entry to the United States following vetting concerns. Bongiwe Zwane spoke to SABC Sports Anchor and Reporter Mawande Mateza