REPORT: Mexico Hits Back At Bafana's ‘Defensive Fragility’

The Mexican media have hit back at comments made by Mbekezeli Mbokazi, pointing to Bafana Bafana's “defensive fragility and lack of results” as a concern to the country's football community.

The South African previously stated that “Mexico should know it won't be an easy match” and that “it's going to be a tough and challenging game.”

Check Out: Mbokazi Fires Mexico Warning: ‘It Won’t Be An Easy Match’

As such, Mexican outlet Record claimed that Bafana Bafana's defence has drawn criticism within the country due to its “defensive fragility and lack of results.”

This reportedly stems from comments made by Manqoba Mngqithi, who expressed concern about South Africa's backline, saying that he has serious doubts about the central defence and that he is not sure whether it is “solid enough” to withstand pressure.

The publication then took aim at Hugo Broos' side, noting that they will go into the 2026 FIFA World Cup with “poor results,” further claiming that this has placed pressure on the team heading into the tournament.

The results being referenced are Bafana's Round of 16 defeat to Cameroon at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, before drawing 1-1 with Panama in the first international friendly they played in March, and then suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat in the second encounter a few days later.

Check Out: Bafana Ranked As Africa's Lowest Team For 2026 WC

The outlet also pointed out that the side was unable to keep a clean sheet at the continental competition.

All the talk, however, will have to be settled on the pitch when the two nations face off on 11 June. Before that, South Africa will have the opportunity to test themselves in friendly matches against Nicaragua and Puerto Rico.