South Africa's World Cup team departs for Mexico without assistant coach
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 6:55 AM
Last updated Jun 2, 2026
The South African national soccer team has departed for their World Cup training base in Pachuca, Mexico, ahead of their opening game against Mexico on June 11. A delay in visa issuances resulted in assistant coach Helman Mkhalele missing the flight. The South African Football Association cited issues with the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg for the visa troubles. Coach Hugo Broos remains optimistic as the team prepares for a friendly match against Jamaica prior to their first World Cup fixture.
- •South Africa departs for the World Cup on June 1, 2026.
- •Assistant coach Helman Mkhalele is not on the flight due to visa issues.
- •The team will play Jamaica in a friendly on June 9, 2026.
- •South Africa's first World Cup match is against Mexico on June 11, 2026.
- •This marks South Africa's fourth appearance in the World Cup.
- 6:55 AMYahoo Sports — South Africa’s World Cup delegation departs for Mexico without coach
"Bafana Bafana’s departure was delayed due to non-issuance of visas for several players and support staff.
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