Siphiwe Tshabalala to join global stars for legends clash in Mexico

Zuko Komisa

Siphiwe Tshabalala joins icons like Del Piero and Totti for the Crown Legends match in Monterrey this Saturday.
The appearance celebrates “Shabba’s” enduring legacy, 16 years after his historic opening goal at the 2010 World Cup.
The exhibition precedes the official 2026 World Cup clash between South Africa and Mexico, scheduled for 11 June in Mexico City.

Former Bafana Bafana winger Siphiwe Tshabalala is set to return to the international stage this weekend as part of the prestigious Crown Legends match in Monterrey, Mexico.

The 41-year-old, affectionately known as “Shabba,” will feature in a star-studded line-up on Saturday, 17 January, alongside some of the greatest names in football history.

Tshabalala remains an iconic figure in world football, most famous for scoring the sensational opening goal of the 2010 FIFA World Cup against Mexico.

Quick flashback to one of the greatest goal scored by Siphiwe Tshabalala a South African player

Africa will do better in the coming world cup I am sure about that…

World cup trophy will definitely come to Africa someday… pic.twitter.com/khv7maXGgv

— A L A D E 👑 (fan) (@Ade_no7) January 4, 2026

This weekend, he will rub shoulders with fellow legends including Alessandro Del Piero, Francesco Totti, Xavi, and Cafu. The veteran side will be managed by former England and Real Madrid boss Fabio Capello.

The exhibition match serves as a precursor to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, for which Monterrey is a host city.

While Saturday’s game is a celebratory affair, the competitive rivalry between South Africa and Mexico is set to be reignited soon.

The two nations are scheduled to face each other at the Mexico City Stadium on Thursday, 11 June, as part of the upcoming global tournament.