On This Day In 2010, Siphiwe Tshabalala Scored 'A Goal For All Of Africa' In World Cup Opener

Exactly nine years ago today, Johannesburg nearly erupted when Siphiwe Tshabalala opened the scoring in the 2010 World Cup opener against Mexico.

Teko Modise played a one-two with a teammate in midfield and upon receiving the ball just inside the Mexico half, sprayed a defence-splitting ball through to the galloping Tshabalala down the left.

There was no way Mexico were catching the Kaiser Chiefs speedster and after arriving in the box, Tshabalala smashed the ball into the far corner with his sweet left foot, leaving Oscar Perez with absolutely no chance.

The scenes were just incredible - with Peter Drury, the man to capture special moments, capturing it beautifully.

"GOAL BAFANA BAFANA! GOAL FOR SOUTH AFRICA! GOAL FOR ALL OF AFRICA. REJOICE!" - was Drury's memorable line, just as the South African players lined up and started throwing some serious shapes.

Image: PA

Mexico would go on to equalise in the 79th minute through Rafael Marquez that didn't put a dampener on what was an moment of ecstasy and euphoria for a country littered with such racial segregation and apartheid for a while.

As far as opening goals go, you'll struggle to find when better in terms of the quality of the strike and what it meant.

Topics: Football News, south africa, 2010 World Cup, Football, World Cup

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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