Amid African flags, fans, and giant screens, the opening match of the 2026 World Cup between Mexico and South Africa was watched in several places in the Senegalese capital.
Beyond the result, Bafana Bafana’s entry into the tournament marked the start of a historic World Cup, with a record ten African teams participating.
In the atmosphere of the 2026 World Cup, at Le Bazoff restaurant in the Sicap Amitie District, the first fans began arriving well before kick-off at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
Gradually, the establishment transformed into a rallying point for football enthusiasts who came to witness the start of the tournament.
In a convivial atmosphere, Senegalese, Cape Verdeans, and nationals from other African countries took their seats in front of the five screens set up for the occasion.
At the entrance and inside the restaurant, the flags of the 48 qualified nations adorned the walls,
giving the place the feel of a global football village. Amidst music, culinary specialties, and discussions about the competition’s favourites, patrons eagerly awaited the debut of the first African
team participating in this World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
“We wanted to showcase the flags of African countries, not just Senegal’s, but those of all ten qualified nations. The idea is for each community to feel at home during this World Cup,” the
restaurant’s manager, Frederic Da Costa.explained
“We’re showing all the matches on five screens and have taken every precaution to offer fans a true World Cup atmosphere,” he added.
A few kilometres away, at Place de la Nation, a fan zone was also welcoming numerous football enthusiasts. Spectators gradually arrived before gathering in front of the giant screen to watch the opening minutes of the competition.
Despite Mexico’s opening goal, some fans continued to believe in South Africa’s chances.
“Anything is possible in football. They just need a few adjustments and to play with freedom. I think they can come back,” said Souleymane Sy.
The Senegalese supporter even went so far as to predict victory for Bafana Bafana. “I see a 2-1 win for South Africa. You never know,” he said. Seydina Issa Laye Diop, president of the supporters’ movement “12th Gainde Senegal d’abord” (12th Senegal Lion), said confidently.
“South Africa hasn’t given up yet. We think they can win this match,” he added.
Beyond this opening match, he was particularly pleased with the presence of ten African nations in a World Cup expanded to 48 teams.
According to him, this record attendance fuels hopes of seeing a team from the continent achieve a historic run.
For Mamadou Ali Thiandoum, whom we met in the fan zone, the most important aspect was the universal dimension of the event.
“The World Cup is a celebration for everyone. Being able to attend such a competition is already something exceptional,” he stressed.
After Mexico’s 2-0 victory, he considered the home team’s win logical, while praising the South Africans’ resilience.
He also expressed surprise at the number of red cards shown in this opening match.
Despite South Africa’s defeat, the fans’ enthusiasm remained undiminished. At Place de la Nation and at Bazoff, discussions were already turning to the upcoming matches involving the African teams, with the hope of seeing one from the continent going on a historic run this time round.
SS/te/Sf/fss/as/APA