2026 World Cup: South Africa paying for xenophobic mobs - Shehu Sani

Author: Matthew AtungwuPublished on: June 18, 2026Country: South Africa

SportsPolitics

2026 World Cup: South Africa paying for xenophobic mobs - Shehu Sani

Former Nigerian senator Shehu Sani said the South African national football team (Bafana Bafana) is paying the price for xenophobic mobs in their country after their 2-0 loss to Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. Midfielder Themba Zwane was suspended for three matches by FIFA for a red card.

Stay informed with NewsBoulevard

Get the latest news summaries delivered to your inbox

Related News

Africa: sports betting, between opportunities and excesses [Business Africa]

Business & EconomySportsNigeria

AfricaNews•28m ago

Africa: sports betting, between opportunities and excesses [Business Africa]

The African sports betting market, estimated at $1.85 billion in 2024, is expected to exceed $3.6 billion by 2029. Nearly 400 million Africans bet regularly, including 100 million on legal platforms, and 94% of players use their smartphones. Nigeria is the leading market on the continent, followed by South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Ghana. This growth raises debates about player protection and combating addiction.

2026 World Cup: 5 stories that marked the first day

SportsWorld

Jacques PEKEMSI•29m ago

2026 World Cup: 5 stories that marked the first day

The first day of the 2026 World Cup was full of emotions with five standout stories. Surprises, exceptional individual performances, and unexpected results marked the opening day. African teams in particular caused a sensation with unexpected draws and wins. Players like Mukau (DRC) and Lionel Mpasi made headlines after their performances.

World Cup 2026: Mbappé honored from first match with a special jersey

SportsFrance

Florian Guénet•30m ago

World Cup 2026: Mbappé honored from first match with a special jersey

On June 17, 2026, Kylian Mbappé scored a brace in France's 3-1 victory over Senegal at MetLife Stadium in New York, becoming the all-time top scorer for the French national team with 58 goals, surpassing Olivier Giroud (57). To mark the record, the French staff gave him a special jersey with the number 58, signed by all his teammates. At 27, Mbappé now aims for the World Cup goals record, co-held by Miroslav Klose and Lionel Messi (16 goals). France will play Iraq next on June 22 in Philadelphia.

Stay Updated with NewsBoulevard

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news summaries delivered to your inbox

Learn more