June 19, 2026
Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio shows a red card to South Africa’s midfielder #11 Themba Zwane during the 2026 World Cup Group A football match between Mexico and South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. (Photo by Yuri CORTEZ / AFP)
In a Kenyan sports bar, several football fans cheered South Africa’s opponents in their latest match at the World Cup — reflecting a wave of anger at the country’s recent xenophobic violence.
“Everything is political in football. We’re against what South Africa is standing for,” said Shahim, a 37-year-old Kenyan woman, clenching her fists in joy every time the South African team missed an opportunity against the Czech Republic on Thursday night.
“We want (South Africans) to react against what is happening in their country… But nothing happens,” she added.
