South Africa and Mexico Draw 1-1 in World Cup 2010 Opener
Barcelona's Rafael Marquez got the equaliser for Mexico(credit:wikipedia)
Hosts held to draw by Mexico in opening match of World Cup 2010
The World Cup got underway this afternoon in Johannesburg, and the home fans were out in force with their vuvezelas in an attempt to cheer South Africa to a victory over Mexico.
Both sides were tentative in the opening exchanges, with Mexico the more dominant side creating some early chances that neither Carlos Vela not Giovani Dos Santos could convert.
Mexico gave the impression that they would come out after the break and stamp their authority on the game, but it was South Africa who drew first blood thanks to an incisive break, and a rocketing finish from Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Siphiwe Tshabalala in the 55th minute.
For a long period in the second half it looked like that goal would be enough to separate the sides, as Mexico struggled to get back into the game, but with just 10 minutes remaining Barcelona star Rafael Marquez had time in the penalty area to bring down Andres Guardado’s cross and fire in an equaliser.
Siphiwe Tshabalala of South Africa scores the first goal of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
That proved to be the game’s final goal, although South Africa striker Katlego Mphela almost sent the home crowd into raptures in the 89th minute when he was sent clean through on goal, only to scuff his shot against the outside of the post.
