Mexico hit five against Serbia as World Cup opener against Bafana looms

With just days remaining before they launch the tournament against Bafana at the Estadio Azteca, Javier Aguirre's side recovered from an early setback to underline their credentials as one of the teams to watch on home soil.

Serbia stunned the hosts after 19 minutes when Petar Stanic found the net, but Mexico responded emphatically. Johan Vasquez levelled the scores before a Stefan Bukinac own goal handed El Tri a 2-1 lead at halftime.

Mexico continued to dominate after the break as Raul Jimenez added a third goal, another Serbian own goal extended the advantage, and Luis Chávez completed the scoring to seal an emphatic victory.

The result extended Mexico's unbeaten run in 2026 to eight matches, with six wins and two draws, and provided another boost ahead of next week's World Cup curtain-raiser.

"We're heading into the World Cup in good shape, with high morale and a great spirit," Aguirre said after the match.

"We spent 20 or 22 months preparing, and I don't think choosing the players was easy. There were many setbacks along the way. But I think that beyond today's match, or rather the result, we are on the rise."

Despite the convincing scoreline, the veteran coach urged caution.

"The result is a double-edged sword," Aguirre said. "Confidence must be measured - overconfidence is as harmful as a lack of it."

Midfielder Brian Gutierrez believes the performance showed what the hosts are capable of achieving at the tournament.

"We're starting on the right foot. I think we were the better side today, and that showed on the pitch. I believe we're capable of achieving great things at this World Cup," he said.

Mexico's attention now turns fully to South Africa, whom they face in the opening match of the tournament on June 11 before further Group A fixtures against South Korea and Czechia.

Aguirre has already warned against underestimating Hugo Broos' side, describing Bafana as one of Africa's strongest teams following their impressive third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

"South Africa are one of the strongest teams in Africa," Aguirre said previously. "They have grown a lot under Hugo Broos and they are a very competitive side. We know it will be a difficult match and we have to be ready from the first minute."

South Africa, meanwhile, are continuing their own preparations. Bafana played out a goalless draw against Nicaragua last weekend and will face Jamaica in their final friendly before travelling to Mexico.

While Broos' men will be eager to build momentum and sharpen their approach, Mexico's dominant display against Serbia has ensured the co-hosts enter the World Cup opener with confidence and significant home support behind them.