Mexico still vying for last 16 spot - Vela

Arsenal forward Carlos Vela insisted his Mexico side are still potential knock-out phase contenders, despite being held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa.

"The first game is important to start strong in the tournament, but I still think this team is a very good team although we can't win every game now," said the 21-year-old winger.

The Mexicans were left bitterly disappointed after failing to convert their first-half domination into goals as South Africa grew in confidence in front of 84,490 supporters at a packed Soccer City stadium in the Group A clash.

The hosts took the lead when midfielder Siphiwe Tshabalala drilled home a shot after a superb pass from playmaker Steven Pienaar on 55 minutes.

Only a 79th-minute equaliser by Mexico's Rafael Marquez denied the Bafana Bafana the dream start to their World Cup campaign, but South Africa nearly poached a win in added time when striker Katlego Mphela hit the post.

"We were exhausted at the end because we had to chase really hard to get the equaliser," Vela added.

"That left us open to counter-attacks and we nearly conceded again.

"It's not the result we were expecting but there are still two games left and our hopes are still intact."

Mexico face 1998 winners France in their next match on Thursday, while South Africa take on Uruguay on Wednesday.