Sports analyst Kwame Plahar has described Mexico’s opening victory over South Africa as solid but not clinical enough, warning that inefficiency in front of goal could prove costly later in the tournament.

Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Friday (12 June), Plahar said Mexico delivered a “mildly impressive” performance but failed to fully capitalise on their dominance.

“They could have scored four or five,” he said. “At 2-0, they were very carefree with their chances.”

He noted that while the team secured three points and a clean sheet—key markers in tournament football—their inability to convert chances may affect their chances of progressing deep into the competition.

Plahar also emphasised the importance of goal difference, particularly in the expanded World Cup format where best third-placed teams can qualify.

“Those missed chances could matter later because qualification may depend on goal margins,” he explained.

Despite the shortcomings, he acknowledged that Mexico controlled the game tactically and maintained composure, particularly after taking an early lead which helped settle nerves in front of a home crowd.

Looking ahead, Plahar predicted that Mexico could progress beyond the group stage but may struggle against higher-quality opposition.

“I see them reaching the round of 16, but beyond that, stronger teams could expose their weaknesses,” he added.