Mexico to face South Africa in 2026 World Cup opening match at Estadio Azteca
via GhanaWeb1 min read
Mexico and South Africa are set to compete in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup Group stage on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the Estadio Azteca. Mexico, making their 18th tournament appearance, will leverage home advantage and fan support for a strong start. Known for their attacking style, the hosts aim to dominate early. South Africa, in their fourth World Cup, hopes to make a statement with discipline, counter-attacking pace, and team effort against a traditional football powerhouse. The match is anticipated to be a lively contest, with Mexico relying on experience and South Africa seeking an upset. Both teams are looking for an early boost in the group stage, promising intensity and tactical battles. GhanaWeb will provide live commentary coverage.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by GhanaWeb.
Andy Appiah-Kubi, the lawyer representing Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has filed a motion to withdraw from the ongoing illegal mining case. Appiah-Kubi confirmed on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme on Thursday, June 11, 2026, that he has formally submitted an application to discontinue his legal representation, with his reasons detailed in an affidavit filed with the court. He stated that his decision is not based on the expected outcome of the case and that he will reserve further comments until judgment is delivered. Appiah-Kubi mentioned that he is not comfortable with how the case has been handled, finding it to be moving too fast, and intends to petition the Bar Association. The trial involving Chairman Wontumi and Akonta Mining Limited over alleged illegal mining activities in Samreboi has concluded, with the Accra High Court scheduled to deliver its final judgment on July 3, 2026. The accused faces multiple charges, including facilitating unlicensed mining operations and transferring mineral rights without ministerial approval. Chairman Wontumi remains on bail under conditions including a GH¢15 million bail bond, surrender of his passport, and a travel restriction.
Must ReadA group identified as the Ghana First Alliance demonstrated at the MTN Ghana head office in Accra on June 11, 2026. The protest, dubbed "South Africa Must Go," targeted South African-owned businesses in Ghana, including MTN Ghana, DStv, and Gold Fields' Tarkwa mining operations. Demonstrators called for investigations into fees and operations, the closure of some businesses, and the non-renewal of certain leases. Protesters chanted slogans in Twi, expressing anger and frustration over the treatment of African migrants in South Africa. This demonstration follows Ghana's repatriation of nearly 1,000 citizens from South Africa due to concerns about anti-immigrant operations and reports of xenophobic attacks. As of the report's filing, neither MTN Ghana nor the other targeted companies had publicly responded to the protest.
Must ReadSpeaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has clarified his decision to seek a reconsideration of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, also known as the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill. He stated that he was surprised by the bill's passage, as he had anticipated only the consideration stage would be completed before Parliament adjourned. Bagbin made these remarks on Thursday, June 11, 2026, during a courtesy call by the Supreme Court’s 150th Anniversary Planning Committee. He emphasized that Parliament retains the authority to revisit legislation before it is sent to the President for assent, countering arguments that Parliament becomes "functus officio" once a bill is passed. Bagbin noted that the passage process allows Parliament to reflect on its decisions and correct inconsistencies or errors. He also indicated that the emotionally charged public discussions surrounding the bill necessitate broader engagement and careful reflection before any final steps are taken. The Speaker had previously instructed the Majority and Minority leadership to conduct further consultations to build consensus among lawmakers and stakeholders.