South Africa's World Cup loss: Bafana Bafana trolled by African fans in wake of defeat by Mexico

In the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, South Africa lost 2-0 to co-host Mexico. Many African fans backed Mexico on social media, posting memes and mocking messages linked to xenophobic tensions in South Africa. Some South Africans defended their team, while other supporters, such as in South Sudan, rooted for Bafana Bafana due to historical ties.