Mexico delivered a timely reminder of their quality ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026, cruising to a 5-1 victory over Serbia in their final warm-up match before facing Bafana Bafana in the tournament opener on Thursday, 11 June.
Serbia are ranked 39th in the latest FIFA rankings, but did not qualify for this year’s World Cup. Mexico are in 15th place.
The co-hosts recovered from an early setback to produce one of their most convincing performances under coach Javier Aguirre, extending their unbeaten run to eight matches heading into the global showpiece.
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Surprise early lead
Serbia took a surprise lead through Petar Stanic, but Mexico quickly wrestled control of the contest and never looked back.
The hosts were aided by two Serbian own goals, with Stefan Bukinac and Adem Avdic inadvertently finding the back of their own net.
Mexico’s attacking firepower was also on full display as Raul Jimenez, Johan Vasquez and Luis Chavez added their names to the scoresheet.
The result will be particularly encouraging for Aguirre, who welcomed back several key players from injury concerns.
Chávez, who had been considered doubtful before the match, came off the bench to score, while captain Cesar Montes started despite recent muscle discomfort.
Mexico also handed valuable minutes to Edson Alvarez and Alexis Vega as both continue their efforts to reach full fitness ahead of the World Cup.
“The result is a double-edged sword,” Aguirre said.
“Confidence must be measured – overconfidence is as harmful as a lack of it.”
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Not gone unnoticed
The dominant display will not have gone unnoticed by Bafana Bafana.
South Africa arrived in Mexico earlier this week after visa complications delayed their departure and are currently preparing at their high-altitude training base in Pachuca.
With confidence high in the Mexican camp and key players returning at the right time, Bafana face a stern challenge in the tournament’s opening match.
However, Hugo Broos’ side will be hoping to spoil the party and make a statement of their own on football’s biggest stage.
Bafana Bafana have a final warm-up fixture against Jamaica that has been moved to Saturday, 6 June at 23:00 (SA time).
The clash will be played behind closed doors and will not be televised.
Bafana Bafana’s Group A FIFA World Cup 2026 fixtures
- Thursday, 11 June: Mexico vs South Africa, Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 21:00 (SA time)
- Thursday, 18 June: Czech Republic vs South Africa, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 18:00 (SA time)
- Thursday, 25 June: South Africa vs South Korea, Estadio BBVA, Guadalupe – 03:00 (SA time)
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