2010 Soccer World Cup South Africa vs Mexico Preview

2010 Soccer World Cup South Africa vs Mexico Preview: South Africa, which qualified for the World cup in 1998 and 2002, is unbeaten in 12 straight matches leading up to its first World Cup match in eight years.

No host nation has ever failed to make the knockout stage, and Mexico presents a tough challenge in the Group A opener. Mexico has reached the knockout round in its last four World Cups, and is the favorite to win the group. 

South Africa tuned up for the tournament against mainly smaller opponents, but in its last warm-up, edged fellow World Cup qualifier Denmark 1-0. 

Mexico went through a gauntlet ahead the World Cup with games against England, the Netherlands and Italy. The Mexicans dropped the games against England and Holland, but beat Italy 2-1 on goal from Carlos Vela and Alberto Medina in its last warm-up match. 

South Africa will need an inspired effort against Javier Aguirre's Mexico, but even a good effort would lift the hosts confidence against France and Uruguay.