Mohau Nkota: Bafana Bafana Star Makes Bold Statement After 2026 World Cup Draw
- Mohau Nkota has shared his thoughts after Bafana Bafana's group for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was confirmed
- The former Orlando Pirates forward issued a bold statement ahead of the competition's opening match against Mexico
- The Bafana Bafana star's statement ahead of the World Cup opener sparked different opinions from fans on social media
South African international Mohau Nkota has boldly declared his ambition to net the opening goal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following Bafana Bafana’s placement in Group A.
Source: Getty Images
On June 11, 2026, South Africa will take on one of the hosts, Mexico, in a rematch of the 2010 World Cup opener, marking exactly 16 years since the two teams first faced off in the same competition.
Bafana Bafana booked their place at the tournament after an impressive qualifying campaign, and Nkota has become an important member of Hugo Broos' squad since leaving Premier Soccer League giants Orlando Pirates in the summer for a move to Saudi Professional League side Al-Ettifaq.
The winger has already made an impact at his new club, registering two assists and two goals in his first 10 appearances for the club in all competitions.
Nkota reacts to Bafana's World Cup draw
After the draw placed Korea Republic and the eventual winner of the European play-offs, between Denmark vs North Macedonia and the Czech Republic vs Ireland (with the two victors set to clash for a World Cup spot), into Group A, Nkota shared his enthusiasm.
Speaking to SuperSport TV on Saturday, 6 December 2025, he acknowledged that none of the teams would be easy opponents, as all are highly competitive. He emphasised that his team’s focus is on proving themselves, raising their hands, and delivering stronger performances on the pitch.
Source: Getty Images
Nkota also revealed an ambitious personal goal: he hopes to score and claims he wants to net the opening goal of the FIFA World Cup. He added that he is already working closely with his club and national coaches to sharpen his finishing skills ahead of the tournament.
The complete 2026 World Cup fixture schedule is set to be unveiled on Saturday, 6 December 2025.
Here is what fans are saying about Nkota's statement after the World Cup draw on social media.
Makoma Komape said:
"Good energy from the boy, we have to believe that Siyandlula vele."
EL Espolon wrote:
"After the World Cup, a few South African players will go abroad."
Dear Black Child shared:
"He is creating unnecessary pressure for himself and his game, but he is capable, and he can deliver 🔥🔥🔥🔥"
Distant Man reacted:
"What does scoring the first goal help with? He must target scoring in every game. Scoring the first goal doesn't guarantee victory; he must want to score & win. 😏"
Tech_carnly commented:
"Nkota is a confident boy, but sometimes, such statements are unnecessary, and I remember he had this problem of when to pass and take shots at Pirates. There were times when he took shots instead of just passing."
Thulaganyo Mzizi added:
"I hope he won’t play for individual glory, cause it can cost the team."
Doctor shares what he told Nkota
Briefly News earlier reported that Doctor Khumalo shared what he told Nkota after scoring in Bafana Bafana's win over Zambia in the last international break.
The Kaizer Chiefs legend offered the former Orlando Pirates winger some form of advice after leaving the Betway Premiership.
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Source: Briefly News
