The 11th of June 2010 was a day which has created a lasting legacy in South Africa.

South Africans and visitors from all over the world descended upon FNB Stadium for the opening game of the 2010 FIFA World Cup between Bafana Bafana and Mexico.

The countdown to this magnificent day was six years in the making after South Africa won the rights to host footballs most sought after global spectacle in 2004.

The world was welcomed to South Africa with an epic opening ceremony which included a performance by R Kelly and the legendary Hugh Masekela.

In total more than 1500 South African artists, dancers, musicians and performers welcomed the world to Africa.

The colours and atmosphere of the opening ceremony introduced the world to the culture and passion of South Africa and the continent of Africa.

The sound of the vuvuzela and a sea of green and gold welcomed Bafana Bafana and Mexico onto the field.

This was South Africa’s moment to shine on and off the field and they did not disappoint.

Match highlights.

South Africa and Mexico both played attacking football and the first half ended 0-0.

55 minutes into the match and Siphiwe Tshabalala latched onto a beautifully timed through ball. The crowd of more than 84000 at FNB Stadium and millions around the world watched on as Tshabalala had the opportunity to write his name into the history books and send South Africa into party mode.

It was a one-on-one opportunity from a tough angle.

But this was a day for Tshabalala to fire on the big stage and he did just that as he rocketed the ball into the top corner. 1-0 Bafana Bafana.

FNB Stadium and quite possibly the entire African continent erupted.

Mexico scored a late equalizer through Rafael Marquez and Katlego Mphela had an opportunity to win the match off the last kick of the game only to see the ball hit the post.

The match ended 1-1, however the dancing and celebrations continued for an entire month of football celebrations and this match has created a lasting legacy and memories which will last a lifetime.

Looking back on that opening goal, Tshabalala is proud of the impact which his goal had.

“Remembering the goal as well‚ because I know some people were in the shebeens‚ taverns‚ fan parks‚ I watched the videos over and over again where people were celebrating‚ jumping‚ hugging‚ and it really makes me emotional.

“But proud as well that I did somehow make an impact on people’s lives. And I’ll be forever grateful.”