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African fans troll South Africa after World Cup opener loss

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 10:52 AM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

African fans troll South Africa after World Cup opener loss
Summary

South Africa's national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, faced a 2-0 loss to Mexico during the World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Following the match, social media reactions from African fans included mocking memes supporting Mexico. Some fans aired grievances related to xenophobia in South Africa, influencing their choice to back Mexico instead. South Africa's government praised the team's effort but acknowledged the disappointment in the result. South Africa has two more matches to improve their standing in the tournament.

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Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Bafana Bafana lost 2-0 to Mexico in their World Cup opener.
  • •Social media saw widespread trolling from fans supporting Mexico.
  • •Anger over xenophobia in South Africa fueled the backlash.
  • •The South African government praised the team's spirited performance.
  • •South Africa has two remaining matches in the tournament.
Latest Updates
  • 10:52 AMYahoo Sports — South Africa trolled by African fans in wake of World Cup loss
What they're saying
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The taunting reflects anger from parts of the continent over reports of xenophobia in South Africa.

Related Teams & Leagues
Soccer

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