Mexico and Bafana Bafana’s encounter at Estadio Azteca is also set to feature FIFA’s new 360-degree anthem protocol.
It will replace the traditional pre-match lineup with a centre-circle formation involving every player in the matchday squad.
BAFANA BAFANA TO BE PART OF FIFA FIRST
The initiative forms part of FIFA’s efforts to create a more immersive matchday experience and showcase greater unity among players before kick-off.
Instead of lining up in straight lines facing the stands, all matchday players, including substitutes, will gather around the centre circle alongside the refereeing team.
The players will face inward toward one another, creating a symbolic display of unity before the national anthems.
Should the new protocol go ahead as planned, Bafana Bafana supporters watching Thursday’s clash against Mexico will witness a unique piece of football history before a ball is kicked.
The match is scheduled to start at 21:00 South African time and will serve as both South Africa’s tournament opener and the debut of FIFA’s latest pre-match innovation.
Other Group A Fixtures
- 25 June 2026
- South Africa vs South Korea
- Estadio BBVA, Guadalupe, Mexico
- 03:00 SAST.
Also read: FIFA World Cup: How South Africa can progress to the next round
WHO IS IN THE BAFANA BAFANA WORLD CUP SQUAD?
Goalkeepers
- Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)
- Ricardo Goss (Siwelele FC)
Defenders
- Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City)
- Khulumani Ndamane (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Bradley Cross (Kaizer Chiefs)
- Khuliso Mudau (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Aubrey Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire, USA)
- Samukele Kabini (Molde FK, Norway)
- Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates)
- Ime Okon (Hannover 96, Germany)
- Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union, USA)
- Kamogelo Sebelebele (Orlando Pirates)
Midfielders
- Jayden Adams (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Teboho Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Sphephelo Sithole (CD Tondela, Portugal)
- Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates)
Forwards
- Lyle Foster (Burnley, England)
- Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
- Themba Zwane (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol, Cyprus)
- Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates)
- Tshepang Moremi (Orlando Pirates)
- Oswin Appollis (Orlando Pirates)
- Iqraam Rayners (Mamelodi Sundowns).
