Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has stirred reactions after linking South Africa’s disappointing start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup to the country’s history of xenophobic violence.
Sani made the remark on Thursday in a post on his verified X account while reacting to Bafana Bafana’s 2-0 defeat to co-hosts Mexico in the tournament’s opening match at the Mexico City Stadium.
The former lawmaker suggested that South Africa’s struggles on the football pitch could be viewed as a consequence of the actions of xenophobic groups that have targeted foreign nationals in the country over the years.
“Bafana are paying the price for the behaviour of the Xenophobic mobs in their country,” Sani wrote.
South Africa endured a difficult outing against Mexico, conceding two goals and failing to make an impact in front of goal. The team’s challenges were further compounded after attacking midfielder Themba Zwane was handed a three-match suspension by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee following his red card in the encounter, although the decision remains subject to appeal.
Sani’s comments come against the backdrop of recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, incidents that have often sparked diplomatic tensions and drawn condemnation from several African countries, including Nigeria.
While the former senator’s remarks reflect a personal opinion, they have reignited discussions on the impact of xenophobia on South Africa’s image within the African continent as the country seeks to make progress in the global football showpiece.
South Africa will now look to recover from its opening defeat as it prepares for its next group-stage fixture, with hopes of keeping its World Cup campaign alive.
