FIFA World Cup: The Reason Many African Nations Aren't Supporting South Africa

South Africa’s opening Group A clash against Mexico in the World Cup, was expected to unite African football fans behind the continent's representatives.

Instead, many supporters have chosen not to throw their weight behind Bafana Bafana.

While some African fans are firmly behind Bafana Bafana, others have expressed little enthusiasm for the team, with online debates revealing a surprising divide.

These contrasting reactions have raised questions about why South Africa—a nation carrying the continent's hopes on football's major stage- is struggling to secure the wholehearted backing of fellow Africans.

But why might this be? Let's take a look below:

Socioeconomic Tensions and the Roots of Xenophobia

Over the years, many South Africans have argued that undocumented immigrants place additional pressure on employment opportunities, housing, and small businesses, amid ongoing struggles with unemployment, poverty, corruption, and poor leadership.

On X (formerly known as Twitter), one user, @MrAndyNgo, pointed this out on June 7: “Go back to your country! You destroyed your country. You come to South Africa to destroy our country!”

Xenophobia has become an increasingly prominent issue in the country. Tensions are often directed at nations such as Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Malawi, which have faced hostility, discrimination, and, in some cases, violent attacks.

Consequently, as South Africa looks to rally support from across the continent in this major tournament, many have insisted that the nation should show the same level of solidarity to fellow Africans living within its borders.

Online Backlash and the Football Boycott

“Many Africans are saying, 'If we support South Africa in this world cup, they will think we are taking their jobs.'

So now the joke is, 'If we cheer for Bafana Bafana, they’ll accuse us of taking their support too,'” one user on X claimed.

“On the other hand, Mexico welcomed Africans—no drama, no attacks—just vibes. Football is family… but family shouldn’t burn your shop or chase you out for existing,” he continued.

Another user, @afcsakaSZN, claimed, “This xenophobic country left out some of their best players because they're not native South Africans. 'Aliens.' It’s the whole world vs. this xenophobic nation. The world wins.”

The Debate Over Pan-African Support

While a large number of Africans have chosen not to rally behind South Africa, others have remained loyal to Bafana Bafana, putting football rivalries and political differences aside to support the team.

User @sholard_mancity posted: “Today, South Africa faces Mexico. It's funny watching some Africans rush to support Mexico because they're angry at South Africans over immigration issues. Your own country isn't at the World Cup. Some have never even qualified. Whether you like South Africa or not, they are carrying an African flag on that pitch today. Supporting Mexico over an African team says more about you than it does about South Africa. Africa first.”