2026 FIFA World Cup: Ghanaians, Nigerians online jubilate as Mexico whips South Africa

Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup sparked celebrations among many Ghanaian and Nigerian social media users.

For weeks leading up to the tournament opener, several Ghanaians had openly declared their support for Mexico against South Africa, with the rivalry fueled by growing anger over recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.

The sentiment was particularly visible on platforms such as TikTok and X, where Ghanaian content creators shared Mexican-themed videos, cultural content and messages backing the North American side ahead of the match.

Following Mexico’s victory, social media was flooded with reactions from users who linked the result to the ongoing tensions surrounding the treatment of African migrants in South Africa.

“South Africans couldn’t attack because they were playing white people,” one user wrote in a post that attracted significant engagement.

Another user remarked, “Even if South Africa is playing alone, I will support the stadium.”

A third user joked, “If we support South Africa, they will say we are taking their jobs.”

Similar reactions emerged from Nigerian users, many of whom celebrated Mexico’s win while expressing frustration over reports of hostility toward foreign nationals living and working in South Africa.

The online reactions come against the backdrop of escalating xenophobic tensions and anti-immigrant protests in South Africa. Demonstrations, vigilante actions and sporadic violence directed at foreign nationals have triggered concern across the continent and strained diplomatic relations between several African countries and Pretoria.

In response to the deteriorating situation, the Government of Ghana launched special repatriation flights to evacuate more than 800 citizens who feared for their safety. Nigerian authorities have also announced plans to bring home more than 130 of their nationals.

While the football result had no direct connection to the migration crisis, the match became a focal point for many Ghanaians and Nigerians seeking to express their frustrations over the treatment of fellow Africans in South Africa.

Mexico’s victory therefore carried significance beyond football for some supporters online, transforming the World Cup opener into another platform for airing grievances over one of Africa’s most contentious diplomatic issues.