Hosts South Africa almost got a dream start to their World Cup finals campaign on Friday before being held to a 1-1 draw by Mexico in the opening match after Barcelona midfielder Rafael Marquez struck with a late equaliser for the Mexicans.

South Africa had looked to be on course for a surprise win thanks to Siphiwe Tshabalala's superb 55th minute strike but it was cancelled out by Marquez.

The hosts, though, went agonisingly close to regaining the lead in the Group A clash and taking the three points right at the death when striker Katlego Mphela hit the post after outpacing two defenders.
After a nervy opening half in front of 84,490 fans at Soccer City, South Africa finally found their rhythm to take the lead as Mexico failed to make their first-half domination count.

The Bafana Bafana were lucky to go into the half-time break at 0-0 after Mexico dominated the opening 45 minutes, but Carlos Vela's 38th minute effort was ruled offside.

South Africa had a let off after just four minutes when Mexico captain Gerardo Torrado whipped in a cross which goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune fumbled into the path of Giovani Dos Santos, but his shot was blocked.
Galatasaray's Dos Santos was a constant threat in the opening stages as the Mexicans attacked relentlessly.