African Fans Split Over Supporting Bafana Bafana at World Cup

Across the continent, supporters of South Africa’s national team are showing a split response as the World Cup unfolds. In nations such as Nigeria and Kenya, some fans admit to watching Bafana Bafana matches to criticize the side, a practice known as ‘hate‑watching’.

Meanwhile, other supporters argue that lingering xenophobia makes open backing uncomfortable. The debate highlights the broader social tensions that accompany the tournament.