‘The entire country is behind us’ – Broos Ahead of Mexico Clash

The highly anticipated clash will mark the start of the global showpiece and is expected to captivate millions of viewers around the world, while tens of thousands of supporters inside the iconic stadium create a vibrant atmosphere as the four-year wait for the FIFA World Cup finally comes to an end.

Head coach Hugo Broos acknowledged the magnitude of the occasion and the challenge that comes with playing in front of a predominantly Mexican crowd.

“It will be a special and fantastic experience for us because many of my players have never played in an environment like this before,” Broos told the SAFA website.

“It will be important for us to stick to our game plan and not be distracted by what is happening in the stands. We know there will be thousands of Mexican supporters in the stadium and perhaps only a few South Africans.”

Despite being heavily outnumbered in the stands, Broos said the team draws confidence from the overwhelming support they have received from back home.

“We know we have the support of the nation, and we have felt it over the past few days and during our preparations in South Africa.

“The entire country is behind us. When the match begins on Thursday, we must remember that we are playing for our nation and for all the people who believe in us.”

Bafana have settled comfortably into their base camp in Pachuca since arriving in Mexico last week.

The squad is scheduled to travel to Mexico City on Tuesday as preparations intensify ahead of the tournament opener against the co-hosts.

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