South Africa Vs. Mexico Ends In 1-1 Tie, Offers Exciting Opening Match For World Cup 2010

Siphiwe Tshabalala’s 55th minute goal was equalized late through Rafa Marquez, leaving South Africa and Mexico drawn 1-1 to end the first match of the 2010 World Cup.

A dominant first half from Mexico saw chances from Guillermo Franco, Giovani dos Santos and Carlos Vela go wanting, sending the two teams into half drawn nil-nil.

A counter-attack opportunity for Tashabalala put South Africa into the lead early in the second, the midfielder’s left-footed finish barely getting under the crossbar, into the upper right hand corner of Oscar Pérez’s goal.

The Bafana Bafana had chances to put the match away through Teko Modise, but a defensive error from captain Aaron Mokoena gave Mexico the tying goal and, ultimately, a point.

South Africa’s defensive line was pushing out of their penalty area before Andes Guardado sent a cross to the far post in the 79th minute, but because Mokoena failed to move up with his line, Rafa Marquez was left unmarked, seven yards out. The defender-cum-midfielder settled onto his right foot and easily finished near post for the equalizer.

South Africa had a chance to win the match late, but a Katlego Mphela counter-attack chance from nine yards out hit the base of the near post, keeping the match drawn.

Both teams move on to Group A’s second round on one point. South Africa plays Uruguay on June 16, while Mexico’s next match is against France on June 17.