South Africa Kicks Off World Cup With Tournament’s First Goal

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↵South Africa and Mexico played to a draw in the opening match of the World Cup, but the Bafana Bafana undeniably had the biggest moment, as Siphiwe Tshabalala darted toward the goal, received a spot-on pass and nailed the ball into the top corner in the 55th minute for the first score of the tournament. That touched off a Macarena-like celebration dance from the South Africans. ↵↵Mexico would even the score later in the half, accompanied by a decidedly less spirited celebration, which likely had to do with them having been more relieved than elated to get on the board. South Africa had an excellent chance to take a late lead, but a shot by striker Katlego Mphela clanged off the goalpost in the 89th minute. Nevertheless, the hosts have to be somewhat pleased with the performance, forcing a draw and maintaining hope to reach the knockout round.↵

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