Nine-man Bafana Bafana were left to rue costly errors as they were beaten 2-0 by co-hosts Mexico in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup on Thursday.

The two sides met at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where Bafana Bafana conceded as early as the ninth when midfielder Sphephelo Sithole was dispossessed, and Mexico pounced.

Hugo Broos’ charges were further hindered when Sithole and Themba Zwane were both sent off in the 49th and 84th minutes, respectively.

The two players will miss Bafana Bafana’s second group match against Czechia in Atlanta in the United States of America (USA), on June 18.

While the defeat was disappointing, Broos said there is still a lot to play for, and the team will turn their attention to the remaining group matches against Czechia and the Republic of Korea.

“There is still seven days (before the next group match), and these guys are professionals. If you cannot recuperate in seven days before another game, that is ridiculous,” he said.

“I do not think it will be a problem (regrouping before the next game). We need the next two days to get over today’s disappointment and also the fatigue. The guys will be ready again from Saturday and Sunday to have good training. Also, we have to work on our offensive game because it was not enough today.”

Bafana Bafana will return to their base camp in Pachuca, Mexico, on Friday morning and continue with preparations ahead of departure to Atlanta, USA.

In the other Group A clash, South Korea beat the Czech Republic 2-1.