World Cup 2026 opening day takeaways: Red cards, VAR and hydration breaks
From criticism over water breaks to red cards galore, here’s all the buzz from the opening day of the World Cup.
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Twelve killed in Johannesburg mass shooting, manhunt under way
Police say a manhunt is under way for more than 10 suspects after the attack on an informal settlement.
EXPLAINER
Why are Nigeria-South Africa tensions rising amid xenophobic attacks?
It’s not the first time the two African giants have gone head-to-head over attacks on their nationals.
How Mexican cartels turned South Africa’s farms into meth production hubs
Raids on South African farms have uncovered meth labs linked to Mexican networks, signalling a new cartel phase.
![11 suspects appeared in Swartruggens Magistrate’s Court facing charges including drug manufacturing, illegal possession of hazardous materials, and violations of the Immigration Act.[Handout/SA Police Service]](/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/HIWe4NGWcAAyqUe-1-1780838833.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)
Can sub-Saharan Africa outdo noisy neighbours from north at World Cup?
After Morocco became the first Africans to reach a World Cup semifinal in 2022, can a sub-Saharan side step up in 2026?
Shakira and Burna Boy opening World Cup in Mexico, Katy Perry headlines US
Katy Perry will front the opening US World Cup game, while Alanis Morissette and Michael Buble will open Canada’s games.
Ranking the World Cup 2026 groups: Which teams are favourites to progress?
The first stage of the 2026 World Cup 2026 features 12 groups. We’ve ranked them and picked the favourites to advance.
From: NewsFeed
Fearful foreign nationals in South Africa forced out of their homes
Anti-immigration violence in South Africa has forced foreign migrants to flee their homes.
Published On 4 Jun 2026
Rights group sues South African government over US arms exports
Case challenges permits approved by South Africa’s arms control body, citing compliance failures and oversight gaps.
Mozambique says 5 citizens killed in ‘xenophobic attacks’ in South Africa
The violence prompted 300 Mozambicans to return home over the weekend.
South Africa’s World Cup delegation departs for Mexico without coach
Bafana Bafana’s departure was delayed due to non-issuance of visas for several players and support staff.
