South Africa news

World Cup Golden Boot standings: Messi moves onto seven

The 2026 World Cup is well underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long and winding road to be navigated as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here, GOAL tracks the tournament's most prolific stars.

Switzerland v Canada: Group B - FIFA World Cup 2026

'I don’t give a sh*t!' - Marsch explains 'heroes' speech to Canada players

Jesse Marsch has delivered a defiant response to any critics who might see his management style as "performative" after Canada secured their first-ever World Cup knockout win. The former Leeds United boss was seen delivering an emotional huddle speech on the pitch following the dramatic round of 32 victory over South Africa.

MLS star Eustaquio sends Canada into World Cup round of 16

Canada's World Cup dream reached a new peak on Sunday as Stephen Eustaquio fired the co-hosts into the round of 16 for the first time in their history. The midfielder produced the defining moment at Los Angeles Stadium, smashing home a stoppage-time winner to settle a tense encounter with South Africa.

South Korea president fumes at World Cup exit as head coach resigns

South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo has stepped down from his position following the nation's disappointing group-stage exit from the 2026 World Cup. The decision comes amid growing political pressure as the country's president, Lee Jae Myung, has officially called for a formal inquiry into the team's failing performances in North America.

Spain v Cabo Verde: Group H - FIFA World Cup 2026

How have debutant teams performed at the FIFA World Cup?

Four nations made debuts at the 2026 World Cup, with Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan gracing the grandest stage in international football for the first time. It is the tournament with the most newcomers since 2006 and Cape Verde have achieved the feat of ending a 16-year wait for a debutant to reach the knockout stages, with the African nation to face Lionel Messi's Argentina on Friday.

Canada Training And Press Conference - FIFA World Cup 2026

The Davies enigma: Canada’s biggest game awaits star’s return

Canada have reached uncharted territory, and Davies' uncertain role looms over everything as Jesse Marsch manages his return with knockout stakes and questions rising.

South Africa vs Canada FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 preview

Comprehensive match preview of South Africa vs Canada at World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news and more ahead of this round of 32 clash in Los Angeles.

More votes than Messi! MLS All-Star Mbokazi gets ‘great’ billing

In his first season at the Chicago Fire, Mbekezeli Mbokazi has become an All-Star in the United States - polling more votes than Argentine GOAT Lionel Messi. Fellow countryman and MLS trailblazer Doctor Khumalo has told GOAL why the talented 20-year-old defender - who is now on 2026 World Cup duty - has become a global “ambassador for South African football” and remains on course to be “one of the greatest players” on the planet.

South Africa vs Republic of Korea FIFA World Cup 2026 preview

Comprehensive match preview of South Africa vs the Republic of Korea at World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news and more.

Czechia v South Africa: Group A - FIFA World Cup 2026

South Africa are still alive! Late Mokoena penalty earns draw with Czechia

A late, controversial penalty converted by Teboho Mokoena salvaged a crucial point for South Africa against Czechia, keeping their 2026 World Cup hopes alive. The 1-1 draw ensured that both nations remain firmly in the hunt for knockout stage progression.

South Africa FIFA World Cup 2026 kits

Classic inspiration meets modern flair in South Africa’s 2026 kits.

South Africa star slapped with three-game ban

South Africa attacking midfielder Themba Zwane has been slapped with a three-match suspension by FIFA following his controversial red card during Bafana Bafana's opening 2026 World Cup defeat to Mexico. The severe punishment means the 36-year-old veteran will miss the remainder of the group stage, dealing a massive blow to Hugo Broos and his squad as they desperately seek progression.

Inside Brazil's Main Training Camp for FIFA World Cup 2026

Klopp criticises 'tactically poor' World Cup opener

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has slammed the opening match of the 2026 World Cup as "tactically poor" despite co-hosts Mexico securing a 2-0 win over South Africa. The Red Bull Global Head of Soccer highlighted glaring defensive frailties and a bizarre flurry of red cards that marred the showpiece event at the Azteca Stadium.

Violent clashes mar Mexico's World Cup opening match

Violent clashes erupted outside the Estadio Azteca on Thursday night, marring the opening match of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico City. Riot police deployed tear gas after coming under attack from projectiles, overshadowing co-hosts Mexico's subsequent victory on the pitch as long-standing local political tensions spilled over into the tournament's security perimeter.

Czech Republic vs South Africa FIFA World Cup 2026 preview

Comprehensive match preview of Czech Republic vs South Africa at World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news and more.

Quiñones makes World Cup statement, Montes baffles with red card

Mexico made history in their World Cup opener, but Cesar Montes’ red card left a sour note. GOAL breaks down the winners and losers from El Tri’s 2-0 win.

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Portugal vs Spain predictions: Iberian derby to go to extra time

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Where to watch South Africa today?

Find out where to watch the South Africa national team throughout FIFA World Cup 2026.

World Cup 2026: The Ultimate Guide

Santiago Gimenez AC Milan 2025-26 new kit

World Cup ready? Why Gimenez struggled in goalless season

Santiago Gimenez failed to register a single Serie A goal for AC Milan during the 2025-26 campaign, with legendary Mexican striker Jared Borgetti explaining his fellow countryman’s struggles to GOAL. Despite enduring a tough time at club level, leading to inevitable transfer talk, the 25-year-old forward is still looking forward to starring at a home World Cup finals.

Jimenez milestone, Gutierrez rise: Five keys for Mexico’s WC opener

Mexico enter the World Cup opener unbeaten in 2026, with Raul Jimenez chasing a full-circle moment, Brian Gutierrez rising and Rafa Marquez’s role growing.

South Africa FIFA World Cup 2026 TV Schedule

Everything you need to know about how to watch South Africa in the World Cup.

Explained: Why ALL squad players must join World Cup pre-match anthems

FIFA has announced a significant protocol modification that will see every squad member take part in the pre-match national anthems at the upcoming World Cup. Moving away from traditional sporting custom, football's global governing body has mandated that both starting line-ups and substitutes congregate together on the pitch ahead of kick-off.