By 
PACHUCA, Mexico — The wait is officially over. South Africa’s Bafana Bafana have safely arrived at their base camp in Pachuca, Mexico, igniting the final countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Following a grueling journey from Johannesburg—which included a strategic two-hour refueling stop in Cape Verde—the squad touched down on Tuesday in high spirits, unfazed by the travel fatigue. Waiting for them was a massive media contingent, proving that local anticipation for the South African side has reached a fever pitch.
The buzz is entirely justified: Bafana Bafana are scheduled to clash with tournament hosts Mexico in the highly anticipated opening match at the iconic Estadio Azteca on June 11, 2026.
Coach Hugo Broos has nearly his entire arsenal at his disposal. Key backroom staff, including Team Doctor Tshepo Molobi and Head Performance Analyst Sinesipho Mali, are already on the ground managing player readiness. While assistant coach Helman Mkhalele and head of security Mdu Mbatha were temporarily delayed, the duo successfully secured their US visas and departed South Africa on Tuesday afternoon to join the camp.
The team has set up their tournament headquarters at the Camino Real Pachuca hotel, located just outside the city. They will utilize the world-class facilities at the Universidad del Futbol to acclimate and fine-tune their tactics.
There is no time to waste in the high-altitude conditions of central Mexico. Broos’ charges are scheduled to hit the pitch for their very first training session this afternoon (local time). With just over a week until they step into the global spotlight, the hard work begins now.
