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South Africa's World Cup team faces visa issues ahead of tournament

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 10:21 AM

Last updated Jun 1, 2026

South Africa's World Cup team faces visa issues ahead of tournament

Summary

South Africa's national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, is stuck in Johannesburg due to visa complications preventing their trip to North America. The team was scheduled to depart on Sunday for World Cup preparations, including their opening match against Mexico on June 11. Officials from the South African Football Association are holding emergency meetings to address the situation. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie criticized the association for the travel chaos and has demanded accountability. Meanwhile, the team will continue training at home until the visa issues are resolved.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Bafana Bafana unable to leave due to visa problems.
•Team's departure scheduled for Sunday postponed.
•Opening match against Mexico on June 11.
•Emergency meetings convened by SAFA officials.
•Train at home while visa issues are addressed.

Latest Updates

10:21 AMYahoo Sports — 🤯 Making fools of us: World Cup nation hit by travel chaos

What they're saying

"
Shortly before the start of the World Cup, South Africa is making unexpected headlines. Bafana Bafana are currently unable to begin their planned trip to North America due to problems with the issuanc...
— Yahoo Sports

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