The 2026 FIFA World Cup has progressed into its knockout rounds, establishing itself as the largest tournament in the sport's history while generating no shortage of jaw-dropping moments. Fans have witnessed captivating underdog performances, touching human stories and fiercely debated refereeing calls throughout the competition.
Being present in the US and Canada, two of the three North American hosts, has given me fresh appreciation for something I'd stopped thinking about: the privilege of watching world-class football live on television.
Back home in Nigeria, the time zone gap between West Africa and North America would force me into a miserable choice. I'd either catch replays the next day, skip matches played during odd hours, or drag myself through games with exhausted, red-rimmed eyes.
South Africa's Bafana Bafana delivered one of the tournament's standout stories by reaching the knockout stage with a stunning last-minute 1-0 victory over South Korea in their final group match. The result marked the team's finest showing since first qualifying in 2002, surpassing even their 2010 performance when hosting the tournament.
Yet conversations across the African continent revealed something troubling: the achievement sparked little continental celebration. The glow of Bafana's success was eclipsed by the shadow of South Africa's recent xenophobic violence against migrants from other African nations.
Social media posts and conversations with friends painted a grim picture of transferred anger. Many African supporters openly wished for Bafana's elimination as punishment for attacks on their compatriots.
On June 28, a Twitter user posted a party video with the caption: "South Africa are out of the World Cup, they can now rush home to protect their jobs." A Nigerian actor publicly mocked the team, while another user declared: "Africa is happy."
Nigerian fans seemed to revel in South Africa's misfortune, apparently missing the cruel irony. Throughout North American stadiums, spectators wearing Nigerian colours have endured taunting questions: "When is Nigeria playing?" Nigeria failed to qualify.
Iran's experience offered a starkly different narrative, demonstrating the enduring power of soft diplomacy. Uncertainty hung over the team's participation because of the US–Israel conflict unfolding in their homeland.
Despite these extraordinary pressures, Team Melli completed their group matches without defeat.
The Iranian side's determination and resilience captured global admiration and sympathy. When they narrowly missed advancing past the group stage, finishing just outside qualification, their elimination drew widespread international empathy.
Their story proved that character and composure can transcend politics and geography in ways that national anger simply cannot.
