https://www.iol.co.za https://www.iol.co.za/assets/img/branding/iol/iol-logo-196x82.jpg https://www.iol.co.za RSS for Node Fri, 26 Jun 2026 09:27:56 GMT Fri, 26 Jun 2026 09:27:56 GMT https://www.iol.co.za/rss 60 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/reddam-house-umhlanga-grade-8-cricketer-earns-sau19-womens-call-up-for-pakistan-tour-adc80a73-02c7-4af7-829d-56239dc8f019 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/reddam-house-umhlanga-grade-8-cricketer-earns-sau19-womens-call-up-for-pakistan-tour-adc80a73-02c7-4af7-829d-56239dc8f019 Fri, 26 Jun 2026 07:47:14 GMT Fri, 26 Jun 2026 07:47:14 GMT IOL Reddam House Umhlanga learner Nobubelebesisa “Nobe” Zwane is set to make her international debut after being selected for the South Africa U19 Women’s squad for its first-ever Youth T20 International tour to Pakistan. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/florent-malouda-warns-bafana-bafana-ahead-of-fifa-world-cup-knockout-clash-with-canada-cde420ab-9667-4633-bbc3-c62a90c62501 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/florent-malouda-warns-bafana-bafana-ahead-of-fifa-world-cup-knockout-clash-with-canada-cde420ab-9667-4633-bbc3-c62a90c62501 Fri, 26 Jun 2026 06:53:49 GMT Fri, 26 Jun 2026 06:53:49 GMT IOL Florent Malouda advised Bafana Bafana to strengthen their defence ahead of their FIFA World Cup knockout match against Canada, highlighting their previous defensive lapses and the importance of avoiding disciplinary issues. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/attacking-anarchy-why-its-raining-goals-in-the-expanded-fifa-world-cup-group-stage-1b478b84-e844-41bd-b34c-2d89df351f37 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/attacking-anarchy-why-its-raining-goals-in-the-expanded-fifa-world-cup-group-stage-1b478b84-e844-41bd-b34c-2d89df351f37 Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:25:30 GMT Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:25:30 GMT IOL Goals continue to flow as the World Cup group stage moves past the halfway mark, with Ecuador’s win over Germany and Netherlands’ victory over Tunisia highlighting a chaotic, attacking tournament. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/ayhan-strikes-late-as-brilliant-tuerkiye-stun-pochettinos-rotated-americans-in-sofi-thriller-dd439497-e36c-4ec2-91fa-6a38bd2da68a https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/ayhan-strikes-late-as-brilliant-tuerkiye-stun-pochettinos-rotated-americans-in-sofi-thriller-dd439497-e36c-4ec2-91fa-6a38bd2da68a Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:11:04 GMT Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:11:04 GMT IOL Despite goals from Auston Trusty and Sebastian Berhalter, the World Cup co-hosts suffer a late 3-2 setback in Los Angeles as Arda Güler inspires Türkiye to a pride-restoring victory. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/fifa-world-cup-bafana-bafanas-insular-belief-holds-the-key-to-a-historic-knockout-run-af5ec31e-8335-4ae1-a470-065a9926f1fa https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/fifa-world-cup-bafana-bafanas-insular-belief-holds-the-key-to-a-historic-knockout-run-af5ec31e-8335-4ae1-a470-065a9926f1fa Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:02:10 GMT Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:02:10 GMT IOL Shaking off decades of global underachievement, Bafana Bafana's newfound defensive discipline and clinical mental edge make them a formidable threat in the last 32. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/tactical-suicide-furious-julian-nagelsmann-slams-sloppy-germany-after-ecuador-upset-09a1dd78-afc7-48e3-8504-ba07caabc41a https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/tactical-suicide-furious-julian-nagelsmann-slams-sloppy-germany-after-ecuador-upset-09a1dd78-afc7-48e3-8504-ba07caabc41a Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:31:40 GMT Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:31:40 GMT IOL Despite Leroy Sané netting inside two minutes, the Group E winners capitulate in New Jersey to hand Ecuador a priceless 2-1 victory and a ticket to the round of 32. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/nicolas-pepe-targets-more-world-cup-history-after-firing-ivory-coast-past-curacao-cd2d4b16-e30c-4b67-9ec8-47cb7cb3fa54 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/nicolas-pepe-targets-more-world-cup-history-after-firing-ivory-coast-past-curacao-cd2d4b16-e30c-4b67-9ec8-47cb7cb3fa54 Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:16:29 GMT Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:16:29 GMT IOL Nicolas Pépé scores in each half in Philadelphia as Emerse Faé’s clinical side achieve what Drogba and Touré never could by securing the Ivory Coast's first-ever knockout berth. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/proteas-women/brits-blasts-maiden-t20i-century-as-proteas-women-crush-netherlands-19611bb2-3f31-427d-a51c-756d0eeb827f https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/proteas-women/brits-blasts-maiden-t20i-century-as-proteas-women-crush-netherlands-19611bb2-3f31-427d-a51c-756d0eeb827f Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:38:01 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:38:01 GMT IOL Unbeaten opener Tazmin Brits smashed a career-best 114 not out as South Africa posted their highest-ever Women's T20 World Cup total before routing the Netherlands by 88 runs to boost their semi-final hopes. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/golden-boot-rivals-collide-as-mbappe-and-haaland-prepare-for-world-cup-blockbuster-39adf612-08e1-43ae-9cc2-89ec8883ea45 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/golden-boot-rivals-collide-as-mbappe-and-haaland-prepare-for-world-cup-blockbuster-39adf612-08e1-43ae-9cc2-89ec8883ea45 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:30:07 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:30:07 GMT IOL France and Norway have already booked their places in the knockout rounds, but Friday's Group I decider offers a tantalising subplot as Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland go head-to-head in a battle between two of world football's most prolific scorers. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/jp-pietersen-pleased-with-future-of-sharks-rugby-in-display-in-gqeberha-0647199a-086c-45a7-822a-8e70f0018024 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/jp-pietersen-pleased-with-future-of-sharks-rugby-in-display-in-gqeberha-0647199a-086c-45a7-822a-8e70f0018024 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:21:17 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:21:17 GMT IOL The Sharks had a United Rugby Championship season to forget, but coach JP Pietersen says the future is bright. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafana-urged-to-maintain-winning-approach-for-canada-clash-in-world-cup-last-32-356c8495-5fee-4211-97bf-29e7fd5fdcbd https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafana-urged-to-maintain-winning-approach-for-canada-clash-in-world-cup-last-32-356c8495-5fee-4211-97bf-29e7fd5fdcbd Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:56:59 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:56:59 GMT IOL After a historic win over South Korea, Bafana Bafana are urged to maintain their attacking tactics for the Canada match in the Fifa World Cup knockout stage. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/junior-springboks-ready-for-fresh-challenge-despite-defending-champions-tag-abaaed12-41ef-455b-b57b-8390f0e4e19a https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/junior-springboks-ready-for-fresh-challenge-despite-defending-champions-tag-abaaed12-41ef-455b-b57b-8390f0e4e19a Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:55:21 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:55:21 GMT IOL The Junior Springboks will stick to the rotation strategy that helped them lift the World Rugby U20 Championship title last year, but coach Kevin Foote has still named a strong side to face Uruguay as the defending champions begin their campaign in Georgia. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/watch-the-last-word-on-rugby-inside-rassies-springbok-masterplan-as-england-looms-fe61cabc-2491-4871-8ebd-86f7a669b680 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/watch-the-last-word-on-rugby-inside-rassies-springbok-masterplan-as-england-looms-fe61cabc-2491-4871-8ebd-86f7a669b680 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:50:07 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:50:07 GMT IOL How are the Springboks staying ahead of the rest of the rugby world? The latest episode explores Rassie Erasmus’ masterplan, England’s biggest threats and the fallout from the Bulls’ latest URC final disappointment. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/no-dna-just-rsa-social-media-erupts-after-bafanas-historic-breakthrough-e1f25551-b91f-4b12-bcdc-e0a6a468199b https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/no-dna-just-rsa-social-media-erupts-after-bafanas-historic-breakthrough-e1f25551-b91f-4b12-bcdc-e0a6a468199b Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:36:21 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:36:21 GMT IOL Trevor Noah joined thousands of South Africans celebrating online as " No DNA, Just RSA" emerged as the viral slogan following Bafana Bafana's historic progression to the World Cup knockout stages. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/how-bafana-bafana-turned-chaos-into-history-at-the-fifa-world-cup-033aa07a-080a-4885-9aca-393d53d13cc2 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/how-bafana-bafana-turned-chaos-into-history-at-the-fifa-world-cup-033aa07a-080a-4885-9aca-393d53d13cc2 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:23:30 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:23:30 GMT IOL Hugo Broos believes Bafana Bafana’s tactical discipline and attacking bravery against South Korea finally delivered the performance he envisioned throughout a dramatic and emotionally charged World Cup group-stage campaign. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafanas-world-cup-run-already-worth-r390m-as-bigger-payday-beckons-2238d82b-1370-4edf-8c6a-176659879ec7 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafanas-world-cup-run-already-worth-r390m-as-bigger-payday-beckons-2238d82b-1370-4edf-8c6a-176659879ec7 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:54:22 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:54:22 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana's fairytale World Cup campaign has already earned them close to R390m from Fifa, with a further R66m up for grabs in the round of 32. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/thapelo-maseko-overcomes-mental-health-struggles-to-shine-for-bafana-bafana-at-the-world-cup-f5a87703-e6c0-4222-a7f0-41aff1c3654d https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/thapelo-maseko-overcomes-mental-health-struggles-to-shine-for-bafana-bafana-at-the-world-cup-f5a87703-e6c0-4222-a7f0-41aff1c3654d Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:34:09 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:34:09 GMT IOL Thapelo Maseko revitalised his career after mental health struggles, becoming a key star for Bafana Bafana at the World Cup. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/junior-springboks-kick-off-title-defence-in-georgia-with-riley-nortons-support-848c0c54-78b1-4595-adbd-8a7fe6f946f6 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/junior-springboks-kick-off-title-defence-in-georgia-with-riley-nortons-support-848c0c54-78b1-4595-adbd-8a7fe6f946f6 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:19:22 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:19:22 GMT IOL Junior Springbok coach Kevin Foote says Riley Norton is gaining valuable experience with the Springboks while remaining closely connected to the SA U20 squad, as the Junior Boks prepare to open their Junior World Championship title defence against Uruguay on Saturday. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafana-show-springbok-spirit-to-make-fifa-world-cup-history-in-mexico-3820e53f-ff55-4655-aba5-e3f4ee2d5581 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafana-show-springbok-spirit-to-make-fifa-world-cup-history-in-mexico-3820e53f-ff55-4655-aba5-e3f4ee2d5581 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:01:15 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:01:15 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana's gritty performance mirrors the Springboks as they secure a historic place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32, setting the stage for an exciting clash against Canada. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/rassie-satisfied-with-joburg-training-camp-as-big-season-kick-off-against-england-looms-0f004419-9be8-4b72-a151-428101ea1f36 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/rassie-satisfied-with-joburg-training-camp-as-big-season-kick-off-against-england-looms-0f004419-9be8-4b72-a151-428101ea1f36 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:23:23 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:23:23 GMT IOL Coach Rassie Erasmus declares himself satisfied with preparations as the Springboks wrap up their training camp ahead of the Nations Championship opener against England. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/from-boks-to-baabaas-faf-crosses-the-fence-to-captain-barbarians-against-wales-at-twickers-ed8acee7-d00e-4257-9a53-9ade1a9cb0a1 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/from-boks-to-baabaas-faf-crosses-the-fence-to-captain-barbarians-against-wales-at-twickers-ed8acee7-d00e-4257-9a53-9ade1a9cb0a1 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:07:01 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:07:01 GMT IOL Double World Cup winner Faf de Klerk leads a star-studded Barbarians side against Wales at Twickenham, swapping camps just a week after his Springboks comeback. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/from-zero-to-hero-bafanas-sphephelo-sithole-completes-ultimate-fifa-world-cup-redemption-bc9ae6f3-e885-4420-9367-127646ba0b81 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/from-zero-to-hero-bafanas-sphephelo-sithole-completes-ultimate-fifa-world-cup-redemption-bc9ae6f3-e885-4420-9367-127646ba0b81 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:23:53 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:23:53 GMT IOL Stepping into the void left by Teboho Mokoena, the Gil Vicente midfielder puts his opening-match heartbreak behind him to inspire South Africa’s historic World Cup breakthrough. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/hugo-broos-to-create-bafana-bubble-ahead-of-knockout-stages-22d4101e-a558-4a9d-8d0e-608165504ff3 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/hugo-broos-to-create-bafana-bubble-ahead-of-knockout-stages-22d4101e-a558-4a9d-8d0e-608165504ff3 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:02:10 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:02:10 GMT IOL As Bafana Bafana prepare for the biggest match in their history, coach Hugo Broos has thrown a protective shield around his squad to ensure that outside criticism does not derail South Africa's FIFA World Cup dream. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafana-sa-rugby-leads-congratulations-after-historic-world-cup-breakthrough-49731737-135b-4e17-8716-8b7a4a7d6548 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafana-sa-rugby-leads-congratulations-after-historic-world-cup-breakthrough-49731737-135b-4e17-8716-8b7a4a7d6548 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:50:46 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:50:46 GMT IOL SA Rugby and President Cyril Ramaphosa lead the national praise as Bafana Bafana reach the World Cup last 32 for the first time in their history. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/tennis/wimbledon/wimbledon-talking-points-sinner-remains-top-seed-as-djokovic-chases-history-bdf1fd15-2b9d-4ad6-a31f-553a14aaa2e9 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/tennis/wimbledon/wimbledon-talking-points-sinner-remains-top-seed-as-djokovic-chases-history-bdf1fd15-2b9d-4ad6-a31f-553a14aaa2e9 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:42:57 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:42:57 GMT IOL Jannik Sinner targets a successful Wimbledon title defence despite his Paris setback, while Novak Djokovic eyes a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/world-cup-ancelotti-labels-vinicius-junior-one-of-the-best-in-the-world-as-brazil-march-into-last-32-dce13ea7-1360-49aa-822a-038fac20431d https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/world-cup-ancelotti-labels-vinicius-junior-one-of-the-best-in-the-world-as-brazil-march-into-last-32-dce13ea7-1360-49aa-822a-038fac20431d Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:34:04 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:34:04 GMT IOL Carlo Ancelotti praises Vinícius Júnior's stunning form after his brace against Scotland sends Brazil into the World Cup knockout stage as Group C winners. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/shut-your-big-mouths-vindicated-hugo-broos-hits-back-at-critics-after-bafana-bafana-triumph-08fb8569-5511-4308-9aa9-0c3c9fbb6aa2 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/shut-your-big-mouths-vindicated-hugo-broos-hits-back-at-critics-after-bafana-bafana-triumph-08fb8569-5511-4308-9aa9-0c3c9fbb6aa2 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:30:24 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:30:24 GMT IOL Following a historic 1-0 win over South Korea, a fiery Hugo Broos slams his detractors and insists his tactical blueprint has proven the doubters wrong on the world stage. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/inside-the-system-how-relebohile-mofokeng-thapelo-maseko-bossed-bafana-bafanas-transition-d2be6dfe-5aca-4890-8bbc-14a08cdace5c https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/inside-the-system-how-relebohile-mofokeng-thapelo-maseko-bossed-bafana-bafanas-transition-d2be6dfe-5aca-4890-8bbc-14a08cdace5c Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:50:40 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:50:40 GMT IOL A deep dive into the numbers and shapes that sent South Africa through, highlighting how Hugo Broos exploited South Korea's high wing-backs to manufacture the historic winning goal. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/captain-courageous-ronwen-williams-weeps-tears-of-joy-after-bafana-bafana-amazing-night-31149e72-115a-44f8-9532-61ade34f44b6 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/captain-courageous-ronwen-williams-weeps-tears-of-joy-after-bafana-bafana-amazing-night-31149e72-115a-44f8-9532-61ade34f44b6 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:23:45 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:23:45 GMT IOL Skipper Ronwen Williams feels like an " old head" as a youthful South African side silences the doubters to book a high-stakes knockout date with Canada. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/2026-fifa-world-cup-iconic-drc-superfan-lumumba-vea-beats-visa-delays-to-reach-mexico-a6ac67cc-afa1-4911-b4c6-1629b885a28d https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/2026-fifa-world-cup-iconic-drc-superfan-lumumba-vea-beats-visa-delays-to-reach-mexico-a6ac67cc-afa1-4911-b4c6-1629b885a28d Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:04:07 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:04:07 GMT IOL After months of bureaucratic hurdles, travel delays and health restrictions, DR Congo's famous living-statue superfan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga finally arrived at the World Cup in Mexico to support the Leopards. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/2026-fifa-world-cup-48-team-format-sparks-integrity-fears-over-mutually-beneficial-group-closers-eebd1d1a-d9df-470a-898f-0998f46dfdcb https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/2026-fifa-world-cup-48-team-format-sparks-integrity-fears-over-mutually-beneficial-group-closers-eebd1d1a-d9df-470a-898f-0998f46dfdcb Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:01:20 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:01:20 GMT IOL As the 2026 FIFA World Cup's expanded format opens the door for best third-placed teams to qualify, upcoming group finales spark concerns that nations could settle for mutually beneficial draws. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/president-cyril-ramaphosa-toasts-bafana-bafanas-historic-world-cup-breakthrough-c46dc902-bd5b-4990-9221-f6900c6afb7f https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/president-cyril-ramaphosa-toasts-bafana-bafanas-historic-world-cup-breakthrough-c46dc902-bd5b-4990-9221-f6900c6afb7f Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:56:11 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:56:11 GMT IOL The head of state joins millions of early-morning revellers to salute Thapelo Maseko's winner and backs the national side to stun co-hosts Canada in the knockouts. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/fifa-world-cup-five-reasons-why-bafana-bafanas-historic-triumph-was-no-fluke-0bef5979-78f1-4401-9127-11a5c4257015 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/fifa-world-cup-five-reasons-why-bafana-bafanas-historic-triumph-was-no-fluke-0bef5979-78f1-4401-9127-11a5c4257015 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:29:35 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:29:35 GMT IOL Hugo Broos trusted youth and reaped the ultimate reward in Mexico, as a brilliant defensive display protects Thapelo Maseko's historic winner to book a clash with Canada. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/thapelo-maseko-magic-sparks-wild-nationwide-celebrations-as-bafana-bafana-march-on-5bd4e150-8fa5-4cb6-b4e2-bdb185d3f13d https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/thapelo-maseko-magic-sparks-wild-nationwide-celebrations-as-bafana-bafana-march-on-5bd4e150-8fa5-4cb6-b4e2-bdb185d3f13d Thu, 25 Jun 2026 05:32:00 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 05:32:00 GMT IOL Die-hard fans and political figures flood social media in the early hours of Thursday morning to toast Thapelo Maseko's historic winner against South Korea. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-ratings-thapelo-maseko-shines-mbekezeli-mbokazi-stands-tall-in-historic-south-korea-win-c85f3d4c-ecb5-4eb0-9bdc-f707aacf18cf https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-ratings-thapelo-maseko-shines-mbekezeli-mbokazi-stands-tall-in-historic-south-korea-win-c85f3d4c-ecb5-4eb0-9bdc-f707aacf18cf Thu, 25 Jun 2026 05:10:11 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 05:10:11 GMT IOL Thapelo Maseko walks away with the man-of-the-match honours, while Sphephelo Sithole completes a remarkable midfield redemption in a disciplined team display. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafana-secures-historic-fifa-world-cup-knockout-spot-with-1-0-win-over-south-korea-06a03f02-7dac-4a96-a870-9a342b257675 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafana-secures-historic-fifa-world-cup-knockout-spot-with-1-0-win-over-south-korea-06a03f02-7dac-4a96-a870-9a342b257675 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:51:18 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:51:18 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana secured their first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout round spot with a 1-0 victory over South Korea, finishing second in Group A and set to face Canada in the round of 32. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-stirs-nostalgia-and-pride-on-historic-day-13a4b9e0-9ea2-4e8a-9dbb-52ca47010d2e https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-stirs-nostalgia-and-pride-on-historic-day-13a4b9e0-9ea2-4e8a-9dbb-52ca47010d2e Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:37:28 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:37:28 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana’s historic 2026 World Cup victory over South Korea, marking their first-ever qualification for the knockout stages, reignited national pride and nostalgia reminiscent of South Africa’s early sporting triumphs. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/soccer/they-said-we-had-a-7-chance-maseko-blasts-critics-as-bafana-make-world-cup-history-3e978f98-b3f7-4366-b3dd-985e2d411535 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/soccer/they-said-we-had-a-7-chance-maseko-blasts-critics-as-bafana-make-world-cup-history-3e978f98-b3f7-4366-b3dd-985e2d411535 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:16:01 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:16:01 GMT IOL Thapelo Maseko’s second-half goal secured a historic 1-0 victory for Bafana Bafana against South Korea, defying a seven per cent prediction to advance from the World Cup group stage for the first time. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/emotional-hugo-broos-hails-five-years-of-hard-work-after-bafana-bafana-stun-south-korea-7b560609-1f8e-4305-9ec3-c06392b74da4 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/emotional-hugo-broos-hails-five-years-of-hard-work-after-bafana-bafana-stun-south-korea-7b560609-1f8e-4305-9ec3-c06392b74da4 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 03:57:32 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 03:57:32 GMT IOL Hugo Broos praised Bafana Bafana’s tactical discipline and resilience after a historic 1-0 win over South Korea secured their first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout stage qualification in Monterrey. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/history-thapelo-maseko-the-hero-as-brilliant-bafana-storm-into-the-world-cup-knockouts-76e6fbe8-40cf-4ec4-b328-e3d255af37ec https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/history-thapelo-maseko-the-hero-as-brilliant-bafana-storm-into-the-world-cup-knockouts-76e6fbe8-40cf-4ec4-b328-e3d255af37ec Thu, 25 Jun 2026 03:36:41 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 03:36:41 GMT IOL For the first time in the nation's history, South Africa advance past the FIFA World Cup group stage after a clinical 1-0 victory over South Korea joins them with hosts Mexico in the round of 32. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/hugo-broos-deserves-the-credit-as-bafana-make-world-cup-history-6d4dfbe2-059e-4989-a41f-a8ad56afb82c https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/hugo-broos-deserves-the-credit-as-bafana-make-world-cup-history-6d4dfbe2-059e-4989-a41f-a8ad56afb82c Thu, 25 Jun 2026 03:35:26 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 03:35:26 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana’s historic advancement to the World Cup knockout stages, led by coach Hugo Broos, marks a monumental achievement in South African football, rekindling national optimism and excitement. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/4-ways-bafana-can-secure-a-place-in-the-fifa-world-cup-knockout-stages-90c60b20-0718-4a91-aa98-fec549322140 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/4-ways-bafana-can-secure-a-place-in-the-fifa-world-cup-knockout-stages-90c60b20-0718-4a91-aa98-fec549322140 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:43:01 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:43:01 GMT IOL This tactical analysis outlines the definitive strategy South Africa must adopt in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage match against South Korea to secure a historic place in the knockout rounds. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/achraf-hakimi-leads-from-the-front-as-morocco-subs-spark-late-comeback-against-heroic-haiti-62672e0b-92fd-4804-9d1c-e04f79777d15 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/achraf-hakimi-leads-from-the-front-as-morocco-subs-spark-late-comeback-against-heroic-haiti-62672e0b-92fd-4804-9d1c-e04f79777d15 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:41:12 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:41:12 GMT IOL On a night when Les Grenadiers ended a 52-year World Cup goal drought, the African giants rely on their bench to seal progress to the knockout stages. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/brilliant-brazil-cruise-into-knockouts-as-neymar-makes-emotional-world-cup-return-f9b584bd-7365-4a38-a017-1c77be94f389 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/brilliant-brazil-cruise-into-knockouts-as-neymar-makes-emotional-world-cup-return-f9b584bd-7365-4a38-a017-1c77be94f389 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:07:48 GMT Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:07:48 GMT IOL Defensive howlers cost Steve Clarke's men dearly in Miami as Vinicius Júnior bags a double and Matheus Cunha seals top spot in Group C for the South American giants. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/game-day-bafana-bafana-seek-world-cup-redemption-in-must-win-clash-against-south-korea-a6750ecb-ceed-4c77-af45-55ee89f675a8 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/game-day-bafana-bafana-seek-world-cup-redemption-in-must-win-clash-against-south-korea-a6750ecb-ceed-4c77-af45-55ee89f675a8 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 19:28:34 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 19:28:34 GMT IOL Coach Hugo Broos aims to reward South African supporters by defeating South Korea to secure a historic World Cup knockout spot. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/proteas-women/coach-mandla-urges-proteas-women-to-avoid-complacency-trap-in-crucial-dutch-clash-3ac6e8cb-076a-452c-aace-283ae50a8a9e https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/proteas-women/coach-mandla-urges-proteas-women-to-avoid-complacency-trap-in-crucial-dutch-clash-3ac6e8cb-076a-452c-aace-283ae50a8a9e Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:11:41 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:11:41 GMT IOL Proteas coach Mandla Mashimbyi has warned his side against overconfidence ahead of Thursday’s T20 World Cup match against the Netherlands, https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/why-springboks-should-take-careful-note-of-rennies-choice-of-all-blacks-captain-3f2d4f24-3b87-4672-b5ce-f27bd9062e7f https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/why-springboks-should-take-careful-note-of-rennies-choice-of-all-blacks-captain-3f2d4f24-3b87-4672-b5ce-f27bd9062e7f Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:53:02 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:53:02 GMT IOL The new All Blacks coach Dave Rennie had his own special reasons for choosing Ardie Savea as the new team captain. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/commonwealth-games/paul-keith-and-trevor-bowl-their-way-to-glasgow-dedd14bf-65c7-4ba8-b191-8398024fdfcd https://www.iol.co.za/sport/commonwealth-games/paul-keith-and-trevor-bowl-their-way-to-glasgow-dedd14bf-65c7-4ba8-b191-8398024fdfcd Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:53:32 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:53:32 GMT IOL Under the intense scrutiny of the BSA selectors, the country’s premier bowlers spent days refining their skills, forging combinations and preparing to proudly don the green and gold on one of the sport’s most prestigious international stages. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/bok-coach-rassie-explains-why-riley-norton-has-leapfrogged-man-mountain-van-der-mescht-173f5bc0-cd6d-4e46-935b-02fadd29dba5 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/bok-coach-rassie-explains-why-riley-norton-has-leapfrogged-man-mountain-van-der-mescht-173f5bc0-cd6d-4e46-935b-02fadd29dba5 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:34:21 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:34:21 GMT IOL At one stage, JJ van der Mescht was in Rassie Erasmus's plans but the Springbok coach has explained why the former Junior Bok must wait a while. https://www.iol.co.za/business/2026-fifa-world-cup-mexicos-ticket-prices-soar-to-the-highest-db06fc17-f29b-4063-b272-8329364aa51e https://www.iol.co.za/business/2026-fifa-world-cup-mexicos-ticket-prices-soar-to-the-highest-db06fc17-f29b-4063-b272-8329364aa51e Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:30:42 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:30:42 GMT IOL France offers the best value for travelling World Cup fans, while Mexico's average ticket price has climbed to nearly R20,000. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/mosimane-sends-well-wishes-to-bafana-ahead-of-crucial-world-cup-clash-against-south-korea-71cfe8de-d018-4c3b-84d5-196c32951e78 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/mosimane-sends-well-wishes-to-bafana-ahead-of-crucial-world-cup-clash-against-south-korea-71cfe8de-d018-4c3b-84d5-196c32951e78 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:20:16 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:20:16 GMT IOL Linked successor Pitso Mosimane wishes Bafana Bafana and Hugo Broos well before their crucial World Cup match against South Korea. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/hugo-broos-to-leave-a-lasting-legacy-by-nurturing-bafana-bafanas-next-generation-of-football-stars-addb6b0f-b3ac-4e97-a98b-dca4688ae98f https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/hugo-broos-to-leave-a-lasting-legacy-by-nurturing-bafana-bafanas-next-generation-of-football-stars-addb6b0f-b3ac-4e97-a98b-dca4688ae98f Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:08:50 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:08:50 GMT IOL Retiring coach Hugo Broos leaves a strong legacy, having mentored five talented young Bafana Bafana players into future national stars. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/urc/urc-sa-season-in-review-bulls-fall-flat-in-final-while-lions-and-stormers-fall-to-leinster-might-8f5bfd55-bdc0-4066-b5c1-b603f9061608 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/urc/urc-sa-season-in-review-bulls-fall-flat-in-final-while-lions-and-stormers-fall-to-leinster-might-8f5bfd55-bdc0-4066-b5c1-b603f9061608 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:00:39 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:00:39 GMT IOL A comprehensive wrap of the four South African United Rugby Championship franchises as the Bulls suffer final heartbreak in Dublin, the Stormers and Lions face reality checks, and the Sharks endure a coaching transition. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/how-bafana-can-make-world-cup-history-against-south-korea-933bb739-7fa1-494a-8cd5-06d6eaf3521b https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/how-bafana-can-make-world-cup-history-against-south-korea-933bb739-7fa1-494a-8cd5-06d6eaf3521b Wed, 24 Jun 2026 14:24:05 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 14:24:05 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana faces a challenging World Cup match against South Korea, where a victory is crucial for their first-ever knockout round qualification, despite having only a slim chance of winning and key player Teboho Mokoena suspended. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/returning-captain-ben-stokes-apologises-to-england-teammates-after-curfew-exile-513c16bf-ab2c-40a0-95c2-6b9e57555f17 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/returning-captain-ben-stokes-apologises-to-england-teammates-after-curfew-exile-513c16bf-ab2c-40a0-95c2-6b9e57555f17 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 13:10:00 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 13:10:00 GMT IOL England captain Ben Stokes says he was " man enough" to look his team-mates in the eye and apologise for the nightclub curfew breach that forced him to miss the second Test defeat against New Zealand. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/muhsin-ertugral-defends-hugo-broos-amid-world-cup-criticism-with-bafana-bafana-b4d834b7-aec3-4626-9579-08999bc12894 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/muhsin-ertugral-defends-hugo-broos-amid-world-cup-criticism-with-bafana-bafana-b4d834b7-aec3-4626-9579-08999bc12894 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 13:08:57 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 13:08:57 GMT IOL Muhsin Ertugral defends Hugo Broos, claiming the coach has earned his stripes despite facing heavy criticism during the World Cup. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/austrian-gp-ferrari-to-unleash-engine-upgrade-for-hamilton-title-fight-26abc9c9-2828-44d3-b870-63c1227f22d8 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/austrian-gp-ferrari-to-unleash-engine-upgrade-for-hamilton-title-fight-26abc9c9-2828-44d3-b870-63c1227f22d8 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 12:14:34 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 12:14:34 GMT IOL What looked like a runaway season for Mercedes is shaping up to be one of the most compelling storylines in modern Formula One history as Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari continue their remarkable resurgence. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/2026-fifa-world-cup-why-chinese-fans-are-braving-online-abuse-to-back-rivals-japan-fc5693e4-4ebc-4c25-a075-466c3055cebe https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/2026-fifa-world-cup-why-chinese-fans-are-braving-online-abuse-to-back-rivals-japan-fc5693e4-4ebc-4c25-a075-466c3055cebe Wed, 24 Jun 2026 12:05:02 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 12:05:02 GMT IOL Despite deep-seated historical animosity and rising political tensions between Beijing and Tokyo, a passionate community of Chinese football fans is publicly rallying behind Japan at the World Cup. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/the-goat-race-ronaldo-and-messi-ignite-the-ultimate-world-cup-golden-boot-shootout-706f7559-64d9-4cdb-8365-397302323a78 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/the-goat-race-ronaldo-and-messi-ignite-the-ultimate-world-cup-golden-boot-shootout-706f7559-64d9-4cdb-8365-397302323a78 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:48:40 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:48:40 GMT IOL As the 2026 FIFA World Cup expands to 48 teams, elite marksmen like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Cristiano Ronaldo are shattering records in a high-scoring race for the Golden Boot. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/siya-kolisi-recalls-horror-captaincy-debut-ahead-of-72nd-milestone-against-england-d423364c-b458-4a05-a648-4a88d269ff51 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/siya-kolisi-recalls-horror-captaincy-debut-ahead-of-72nd-milestone-against-england-d423364c-b458-4a05-a648-4a88d269ff51 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:42:15 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:42:15 GMT IOL Springbok captain Siya Kolisi reflects on his emotional 2018 captaincy debut at Ellis Park against England, revealing how a 24-3 deficit taught him a life-changing lesson about leadership. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/2026-fifa-world-cup-broos-blames-fatigue-and-40c-heat-ahead-of-crucial-bafana-clash-63602c7a-120b-47c0-a846-308e66a385e5 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/2026-fifa-world-cup-broos-blames-fatigue-and-40c-heat-ahead-of-crucial-bafana-clash-63602c7a-120b-47c0-a846-308e66a385e5 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:53:25 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:53:25 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos highlights extreme weather conditions and a grueling travel schedule across Mexico and the United States as major hurdles before their must-win World Cup game against South Korea. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/2026-fifa-world-cup-why-american-stats-mumbo-jumbo-is-ruining-the-commentary-magic-221dfec5-7dbd-42be-b61f-bbb589a44183 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/2026-fifa-world-cup-why-american-stats-mumbo-jumbo-is-ruining-the-commentary-magic-221dfec5-7dbd-42be-b61f-bbb589a44183 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:31:17 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:31:17 GMT IOL While the United States knows how to put on a show in world-class stadiums, their football commentary leaves much to be desired for fans who prefer poetic storytelling over clinical NFL-style metrics. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/its-time-to-believe-bafana-can-make-south-african-football-history-e0e001ea-abc3-4252-9d10-256fdff5e518 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/its-time-to-believe-bafana-can-make-south-african-football-history-e0e001ea-abc3-4252-9d10-256fdff5e518 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:38:54 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:38:54 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana’s final FIFA World Cup group game against South Korea is a pivotal moment where belief in the team and coach Hugo Broos is crucial for making South African football history by reaching the knockout rounds for the first time. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/farouk-abrahams-why-bafana-can-still-make-world-cup-history-77f46e4d-f3b5-413c-aff9-994dcd08f440 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/farouk-abrahams-why-bafana-can-still-make-world-cup-history-77f46e4d-f3b5-413c-aff9-994dcd08f440 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:36:42 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:36:42 GMT IOL Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper coach Farouk Abrahams assesses South Africa’s must-win World Cup clash against South Korea and the tactical tweaks needed for knockout progress. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/arrogant-england-fans-silenced-as-ghana-earn-famous-world-cup-point-196a3351-9821-45c5-9a0d-b316812dcb95 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/arrogant-england-fans-silenced-as-ghana-earn-famous-world-cup-point-196a3351-9821-45c5-9a0d-b316812dcb95 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:23:53 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:23:53 GMT IOL Ghana’s resilient goalless draw against England in the World Cup highlighted the underestimation of African teams and silenced arrogant England fans. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafanas-sphephelo-sithole-embraces-pressure-of-filling-teboho-mokoenas-boots-e8d94e97-9b87-4ffa-9866-23adc32c8e05 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/bafana-bafanas-sphephelo-sithole-embraces-pressure-of-filling-teboho-mokoenas-boots-e8d94e97-9b87-4ffa-9866-23adc32c8e05 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:08:16 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:08:16 GMT IOL Hugo Broos's side face a brutally simple equation against South Korea, but Sphephelo Sithole is showing no signs of pressure ahead of the must-win World Cup clash. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/mma/south-africas-dricus-du-plessis-set-for-ufc-comeback-fight-vs-kamaru-usman-3de8b88d-3705-462e-9e22-670f877db0de https://www.iol.co.za/sport/mma/south-africas-dricus-du-plessis-set-for-ufc-comeback-fight-vs-kamaru-usman-3de8b88d-3705-462e-9e22-670f877db0de Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:43:49 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:43:49 GMT IOL Former UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis is poised for a comeback next month, taking on former welterweight king Kamaru Usman in what promises to be an electrifying showdown in Oklahoma https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/state-of-play-how-group-l-stands-after-ghana-frustration-and-croatia-lifeline-cc3e6fce-5ac2-4411-b1ee-c464a6667240 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/state-of-play-how-group-l-stands-after-ghana-frustration-and-croatia-lifeline-cc3e6fce-5ac2-4411-b1ee-c464a6667240 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:42:43 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:42:43 GMT IOL England and Ghana look like they've comfortably made the round of 32, while Croatia holds on for dear life in Group L. As for Panama, their 2026 World Cup is over. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/im-back-defiant-cristiano-ronaldo-fires-back-at-critics-as-masterclass-silences-the-doubters-945af516-e866-4fa1-a27e-258f3046121b https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/im-back-defiant-cristiano-ronaldo-fires-back-at-critics-as-masterclass-silences-the-doubters-945af516-e866-4fa1-a27e-258f3046121b Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:31:02 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:31:02 GMT IOL 145 international goals and counting. The Portuguese icon Ronaldo joins Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland at the North American party with a historic performance in Houston. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/doctor-khumalo-sends-clear-message-as-bafana-face-crucial-fifa-world-cup-clash-8c994578-45eb-430c-9e71-6fdc26da8e2c https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/doctor-khumalo-sends-clear-message-as-bafana-face-crucial-fifa-world-cup-clash-8c994578-45eb-430c-9e71-6fdc26da8e2c Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:20:45 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:20:45 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana face a crucial Fifa World Cup match against South Korea, where a draw or victory is essential to advance beyond the group stage, as emphasised by Afcon-winning legend Doctor Khumalo. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/daniel-munoz-breaks-leopards-resistance-as-colombia-edge-dr-congo-to-seal-knockout-spot-671d34b2-abdb-4aa4-819e-29b124a7288d https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/daniel-munoz-breaks-leopards-resistance-as-colombia-edge-dr-congo-to-seal-knockout-spot-671d34b2-abdb-4aa4-819e-29b124a7288d Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:11:40 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:11:40 GMT IOL Crystal Palace defender Daniel Muñoz makes amends for an earlier miss to fire Los Cafeteros into the round of 32 and leave Group K rivals Portugal playing catch-up. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/the-ageless-icon-cristiano-ronaldo-defies-time-to-claim-eusebios-crown-and-make-world-cup-history-6aa9af4d-532d-41ac-9f88-baf26cffe21f https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/the-ageless-icon-cristiano-ronaldo-defies-time-to-claim-eusebios-crown-and-make-world-cup-history-6aa9af4d-532d-41ac-9f88-baf26cffe21f Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:49:18 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:49:18 GMT IOL Silencing the critics in spectacular fashion, Portugal's captain claims his country’s ultimate tournament milestone during a 5-0 dismantling of Uzbekistan. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/var-went-for-a-coffee-carlos-queiroz-fumes-at-penalty-snub-as-tactical-ghana-hold-england-36838807-4f05-4728-a79c-73f56e5c1225 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/var-went-for-a-coffee-carlos-queiroz-fumes-at-penalty-snub-as-tactical-ghana-hold-england-36838807-4f05-4728-a79c-73f56e5c1225 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:18:55 GMT Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:18:55 GMT IOL Analysis: Despite commanding 79% of the ball, a wasteful England side miss the chance to seal early World Cup progression as Harry Kane lets a late winner slip through his fingers. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/siphiwe-tshabalala-completes-fifa-executive-programme-ahead-of-critical-bafana-bafana-match-594ec1f7-f547-43c9-8d60-f9d90ea142b5 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/siphiwe-tshabalala-completes-fifa-executive-programme-ahead-of-critical-bafana-bafana-match-594ec1f7-f547-43c9-8d60-f9d90ea142b5 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 19:35:20 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 19:35:20 GMT IOL Siphiwe Tshabalala graduated from the FIFA Players’ Executive Programme, while Bafana Bafana must defeat South Korea to stay in contention for World Cup knockout stage. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/hugo-broos-looks-to-guide-bafana-bafana-to-historic-world-cup-knockout-stage-appearance-f8ccefa5-34c0-4b27-9039-d8e06380e697 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/hugo-broos-looks-to-guide-bafana-bafana-to-historic-world-cup-knockout-stage-appearance-f8ccefa5-34c0-4b27-9039-d8e06380e697 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 19:29:51 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 19:29:51 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana and Hugo Broos aim to defeat South Korea to reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/rassies-boks-wont-change-test-match-approach-to-chase-nations-championship-bonus-points-d97a82a8-f743-44d7-ba22-dc6f10d2b841 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/rassies-boks-wont-change-test-match-approach-to-chase-nations-championship-bonus-points-d97a82a8-f743-44d7-ba22-dc6f10d2b841 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 17:42:00 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 17:42:00 GMT IOL Coach Rassie Erasmus has explained how the Springboks will approach the inaugural Nations Championship. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/five-pivotal-battles-that-could-determine-bafana-bafanas-world-cup-fate-against-south-korea-dc3f6ff5-3e43-4a5d-a1e1-9b395cf98072 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/five-pivotal-battles-that-could-determine-bafana-bafanas-world-cup-fate-against-south-korea-dc3f6ff5-3e43-4a5d-a1e1-9b395cf98072 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:56:02 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:56:02 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana face a must-win match against South Korea in their World Cup Group One finale. Discover the key player matchups that could decide their fate on the pitch. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/muhsin-ertugral-advises-bafana-bafana-on-tactical-strategy-for-decisive-south-korea-clash-801e522a-7579-4cf3-92b2-655518a6c0fa https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/muhsin-ertugral-advises-bafana-bafana-on-tactical-strategy-for-decisive-south-korea-clash-801e522a-7579-4cf3-92b2-655518a6c0fa Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:54:17 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:54:17 GMT IOL Muhsin Ertugral warns Bafana Bafana to avoid dominating possession against South Korea, suggesting specific tactical changes for the must-win match. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/faf-not-discarded-says-rassie-as-he-throws-bok-net-far-and-wide-before-world-cup-c3ba14dc-5e35-4913-8610-0ab2257ff052 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/faf-not-discarded-says-rassie-as-he-throws-bok-net-far-and-wide-before-world-cup-c3ba14dc-5e35-4913-8610-0ab2257ff052 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:46:50 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:46:50 GMT IOL Rassie Erasmus has explained that he will continue to tweak his squads over the international season so that fringe players can state their case. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/what-bafana-bafana-need-to-know-about-south-korea-inn-must-win-world-cup-group-a-clash-7d7ec772-9d41-423a-af3a-b3a51e8a018b https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/what-bafana-bafana-need-to-know-about-south-korea-inn-must-win-world-cup-group-a-clash-7d7ec772-9d41-423a-af3a-b3a51e8a018b Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:15:25 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:15:25 GMT IOL Bafana Bafana face a critical match against South Korea, requiring a tactical masterclass to secure their Round of 32 qualification. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/rassie-erasmus-on-pollock-and-england-they-will-be-young-fearless-we-must-be-at-our-best-d48bceaa-e626-4c27-addc-ae477c57b12e https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/rassie-erasmus-on-pollock-and-england-they-will-be-young-fearless-we-must-be-at-our-best-d48bceaa-e626-4c27-addc-ae477c57b12e Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:10:53 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:10:53 GMT IOL Rassie Erasmus has given his appraisal of the England squad named to play the Springboks at Ellis Park on July 4. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/relebohile-mofokeng-tipped-to-spark-bafana-bafana-attack-in-must-win-korea-match-1b0330e7-7df8-42d0-a9dd-ce20aafaba02 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/relebohile-mofokeng-tipped-to-spark-bafana-bafana-attack-in-must-win-korea-match-1b0330e7-7df8-42d0-a9dd-ce20aafaba02 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:02:51 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:02:51 GMT IOL With Teboho Mokoena suspended, Relebohile Mofokeng is expected to start for Bafana Bafana, bringing his creative dynamism to a must-win match. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/proteas-women/proteas-women-captain-laura-wolvaardt-demands-powerplay-improvement-against-the-dutch-768d0697-1c81-463d-b88c-1dd0f81f8e05 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/proteas-women/proteas-women-captain-laura-wolvaardt-demands-powerplay-improvement-against-the-dutch-768d0697-1c81-463d-b88c-1dd0f81f8e05 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:38:21 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:38:21 GMT IOL Proteas Women’s captain Laura Wolvaardt is hoping the victory over India can ignite her team’s T20 World Cup campaign. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/erling-haaland-urges-realism-as-norway-reach-world-cup-last-32-with-senegal-victory-f1188021-fbc0-4dd7-953e-323fdfbe2292 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/erling-haaland-urges-realism-as-norway-reach-world-cup-last-32-with-senegal-victory-f1188021-fbc0-4dd7-953e-323fdfbe2292 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:35:14 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:35:14 GMT IOL Erling Haaland struck twice to fire Norway into the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in 28 years, but the Manchester City striker is keeping his feet on the ground. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/have-mercy-sonny-a-nervous-plea-to-son-heung-min-ahead-of-bafanas-world-cup-showdown-1a099e42-69c6-4455-9a01-f5a938798c93 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/have-mercy-sonny-a-nervous-plea-to-son-heung-min-ahead-of-bafanas-world-cup-showdown-1a099e42-69c6-4455-9a01-f5a938798c93 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:20:59 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:20:59 GMT IOL With World Cup survival on the line, Hugo Broos's side must find a way to stop one of the game's most clinical finishers, unless a legendary Premier League urban legend repeats itself. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/scotland-v-brazil-old-rivals-renew-world-cup-acquaintances-in-historic-miami-decider-d8b0be47-a9fd-48c1-a065-1914d15d2013 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/scotland-v-brazil-old-rivals-renew-world-cup-acquaintances-in-historic-miami-decider-d8b0be47-a9fd-48c1-a065-1914d15d2013 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 12:18:10 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 12:18:10 GMT IOL Dynamic back-row forward Ardie Savea has been named the permanent All Blacks captain by new head coach Dave Rennie ahead of a grueling Test schedule. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/international/ardie-savea-vows-to-confront-the-burden-of-captaining-new-zealand-under-dave-rennie-a9473258-93a8-46cd-9b90-60ea0e304e77 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/international/ardie-savea-vows-to-confront-the-burden-of-captaining-new-zealand-under-dave-rennie-a9473258-93a8-46cd-9b90-60ea0e304e77 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 12:01:04 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 12:01:04 GMT IOL Dynamic back-row forward Ardie Savea has been named the permanent All Blacks captain by new head coach Dave Rennie ahead of a grueling Test schedule. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/why-the-last-messi-is-the-best-messi-argentina-legend-still-breaks-records-71ef79d3-deb3-4f44-9048-566dc5e17538 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/why-the-last-messi-is-the-best-messi-argentina-legend-still-breaks-records-71ef79d3-deb3-4f44-9048-566dc5e17538 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:44:16 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:44:16 GMT IOL Despite Austria coach Ralf Rangnick planning for Lionel Messi’s lack of off-the-ball running, the Argentina captain struck twice to become the World Cup's all-time top scorer. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/watch-sas-moghelingz-tries-driverless-uber-in-usa-and-is-left-stunned-by-the-experience-b9cc0e5f-dc89-48ef-be54-9fb9bd33715d https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/watch-sas-moghelingz-tries-driverless-uber-in-usa-and-is-left-stunned-by-the-experience-b9cc0e5f-dc89-48ef-be54-9fb9bd33715d Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:26:17 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:26:17 GMT IOL South African digital creator Banela Ndaba experienced the future of transportation by trying out Waymo’s driverless Uber service in Atlanta, USA, during the Fifa World Cup. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/eric-tinkler-reveals-what-bafana-bafana-must-do-to-beat-south-korea-at-fifa-world-cup-2ff1c3e0-d670-42cd-bc1c-a9cd9543e07c https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/eric-tinkler-reveals-what-bafana-bafana-must-do-to-beat-south-korea-at-fifa-world-cup-2ff1c3e0-d670-42cd-bc1c-a9cd9543e07c Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:30:44 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:30:44 GMT IOL Eric Tinkler advises Bafana Bafana to adopt a more attacking approach and start matches stronger to beat South Korea and keep their World Cup campaign alive. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/messi-sets-world-cup-scoring-record-as-stars-outshine-weather-2a170bf2-5dbc-41d9-bde3-92679b0d7f56 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/messi-sets-world-cup-scoring-record-as-stars-outshine-weather-2a170bf2-5dbc-41d9-bde3-92679b0d7f56 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:24:32 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:24:32 GMT IOL Messi's record-breaking display was the centerpiece of another gripping day of World Cup action where the star names once again shone the brightest. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/cape-verde-goalkeeper-up-to-15-million-new-instagram-followers-since-world-cup-started-78c6cb84-70fb-4387-99b0-83aa489f0b22 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/cape-verde-goalkeeper-up-to-15-million-new-instagram-followers-since-world-cup-started-78c6cb84-70fb-4387-99b0-83aa489f0b22 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 05:25:32 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 05:25:32 GMT IOL Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha’s Instagram following surged by over 15 million after his standout performance against Spain at the World Cup, boosting his estimated earnings per sponsored post to R2.5 million. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/the-last-messi-is-the-best-how-scalonis-ecosystem-unlocked-historic-world-cup-mastery-5812976e-60e8-4a1f-a691-dd9f99b0f3ef https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/the-last-messi-is-the-best-how-scalonis-ecosystem-unlocked-historic-world-cup-mastery-5812976e-60e8-4a1f-a691-dd9f99b0f3ef Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:46:43 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:46:43 GMT IOL Despite Austria identifying his lack of off-the-ball running, Lionel Messi strikes twice in Texas to eclipse Miroslav Klose and establish an historic 18-goal World Cup record. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/erling-haaland-hits-double-tops-as-clinical-norway-edge-out-senegal-to-seal-knockout-spot-61e1963b-d2d3-40f3-bf2e-ea8d7df9ca68 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/erling-haaland-hits-double-tops-as-clinical-norway-edge-out-senegal-to-seal-knockout-spot-61e1963b-d2d3-40f3-bf2e-ea8d7df9ca68 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:22:03 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:22:03 GMT IOL Four goals in two matches for Manchester City's talismanic forward as Norway survive a late Ismaila Sarr fightback to joint-top the pool alongside France. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/storm-riding-kylian-mbappe-hits-clinical-brace-against-iraq-to-match-klose-record-68eb581f-9219-4a21-a1a3-7d02aec78d89 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/storm-riding-kylian-mbappe-hits-clinical-brace-against-iraq-to-match-klose-record-68eb581f-9219-4a21-a1a3-7d02aec78d89 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:04:54 GMT Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:04:54 GMT IOL Didier Deschamps' side adapt to extreme conditions in Philadelphia as a double from Kylian Mbappé and an Ousmane Dembélé strike set up a Group I decider against Norway. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/fifa-world-cup-2026-record-breaker-lionel-messi-fires-argentina-into-last-32-dca75517-18a0-4f43-9cc2-62fb082ee4cd https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/fifa-world-cup-2026-record-breaker-lionel-messi-fires-argentina-into-last-32-dca75517-18a0-4f43-9cc2-62fb082ee4cd Mon, 22 Jun 2026 19:21:41 GMT Mon, 22 Jun 2026 19:21:41 GMT IOL Lionel Messi became the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup history, netting a brace against Austria to seal Argentina’s place in the knockout rounds. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/fifa-world-cup-2026-mexico-fans-rally-behind-iran-in-la-after-visa-and-travel-drama-54094783-0966-4bf4-8896-5598371f9eaa https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/fifa-world-cup-2026-mexico-fans-rally-behind-iran-in-la-after-visa-and-travel-drama-54094783-0966-4bf4-8896-5598371f9eaa Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:52:59 GMT Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:52:59 GMT IOL An unexpected football friendship has blossomed at the World Cup, with Mexican supporters packing out SoFi Stadium to back Iran against Belgium following off-field political tensions. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/gameday-fifa-world-cup-2026-lionel-messi-chases-history-as-heavyweights-target-last-32-spot-19ef5b67-331a-4997-8fd2-b491301f415e https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/gameday-fifa-world-cup-2026-lionel-messi-chases-history-as-heavyweights-target-last-32-spot-19ef5b67-331a-4997-8fd2-b491301f415e Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:24:26 GMT Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:24:26 GMT IOL Lionel Messi targets the all-time World Cup scoring record as Argentina face Austria, while France look to seal their place in the knockout rounds against Iraq. https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/brave-england-risk-recklessness-as-ghana-test-tactical-balance-f5d0ef49-1430-4446-a527-ce8dcac85623 https://www.iol.co.za/fifa-world-cup-2026/updates/brave-england-risk-recklessness-as-ghana-test-tactical-balance-f5d0ef49-1430-4446-a527-ce8dcac85623 Mon, 22 Jun 2026 15:15:24 GMT Mon, 22 Jun 2026 15:15:24 GMT IOL Thomas Tuchel has unlocked a thrilling, high-scoring England side, but the free-flowing Three Lions face a critical defensive test against a dangerous Ghana outfit. https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/proteas-women/from-tears-to-triumph-how-an-unwell-marizanne-kapp-played-the-innings-of-her-life-31db2f54-4a35-4772-85fd-629d63e3b728 https://www.iol.co.za/sport/cricket/proteas-women/from-tears-to-triumph-how-an-unwell-marizanne-kapp-played-the-innings-of-her-life-31db2f54-4a35-4772-85fd-629d63e3b728 Mon, 22 Jun 2026 13:27:49 GMT Mon, 22 Jun 2026 13:27:49 GMT IOL Marizanne Kapp overcame illness and a top-order collapse to smash an unbeaten 81 against India, reigniting South Africa's T20 World Cup hopes at Old Trafford.