Gayton McKenzie’s 1-1 prediction falls flat as Bafana lose 2-0 in Mexico amid delegation controversy

Gayton McKenzie had predicted a 1-1 draw between South Africa and Mexico, but Bafana Bafana lost 2-0 at Estadio Azteca on 11 June 2026. The scoreline and decisions around the South African delegation have prompted public criticism.

What McKenzie predicted

On his X account, the Minister of Sport, Art and Culture posted his scoreline predictions for Bafana Bafana’s group-stage matches. For the opening match against Mexico he wrote: “My score prediction is: South Africa 1-1 Mexico.” He also predicted wins over Czechia and South Korea and added, “Viva Bafana Bafana, Mexico and South Africa are going through”.

Speaking to the SABC, McKenzie expressed confidence in the team: “Our players are going to show the world who we are. We are Bafana Bafana, we are South Africans. Ons skrik vir niks. We’re 100% percent behind them.”

Match outcome

Despite McKenzie’s optimism, South Africa were beaten 2-0 by Mexico at the Mexico City stadium on 11 June 2026.

Delegation costs and selection row

The Department reportedly spent an estimated R19.2 million to send a delegation to the World Cup. Part of the controversy centres on McKenzie sending six players who had been excluded from the squad as members of that delegation. The decision drew criticism from some former players and members of the public.

Public and former players’ backlash

Reaction included public backlash and criticism from former players over the inclusion of those excluded players in the delegation. Specific quotes from critics are not available in the sourced material.

What’s next

The incident has stirred debate about delegation spending and selection decisions around South Africa’s World Cup campaign. Further reporting and official responses have not been provided in the sourced material.