The market currently sets a 2.25 total goals line, with strong resistance on the over. From a professional handicapper’s perspective, opening fixtures tend to favor defensive caution. Mexico will prioritize structure over expansive attacking output, while South Africa will rely on deep defensive containment to limit central penetration. With both managers adopting low-risk approaches, this match is highly likely to turn into a low-scoring affair. Recommended Direction: Under 2.25 Goals