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Tag: World Cup

  • Spain and Argentina battle for football’s ultimate prize as the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to an end live on SuperSport

    Spain and Argentina battle for football’s ultimate prize as the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to an end live on SuperSport

    Everything can wait! The 2026 FIFA World Cup will draw to a close with the Final, which pits Spain against Argentina at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday 19 July.  La Roja put up a brilliant showing to take down France in their semifinal, while La Albiceleste were typically gritty and dramatic in their triumph over old rivals England. Here’s the breakdown as Spain and Argentina face off for football’s ultimate prize.

    Head-to-head

    Matches played 14

    Spain wins 6

    Argentina wins 6

    Draws 2

    Spain goals 19

    Argentina goals 18

    Spain and Argentina have met in 14 matches, with both La Roja and La Albiceleste claiming six wins, while two games have been drawn. The teams’ last meeting was a friendly in 2018 which Spain won 6-1, while their only previous World Cup clash was in the group stage in 1966, which Argentina won 2-1.

    Players to watch

    Spain – Rodri

    Tournament stats

    – Appearances: 7

    – Goals: 0

    – Assists: 0

    – Yellow/red cards: 0/0

    While the likes of Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal have had a lot of the spotlight on them, Rodri has become more and more influential as the tournament has progressed, and he was the conductor for Spain in their victory over France, controlling the midfield with a blend of elegance, intelligence and physicality when required.

    If he can replicate that kind of performance in the Final, then Spain will be well set to become two-time World Cup winners.

    Argentina – Lionel Messi

    Tournament stats

    – Appearances: 7

    – Goals: 8

    – Assists: 4

    – Yellow/red cards: 0/0

    Already a World Cup winner and regarded as one of the all-time greats, Messi will further entrench himself as a football legend if Argentina can win their fourth World Cup title – and his second as captain of the team. With 12 goal involvements (8 goals, 4 assists) at this tournament, the 39-year-old has remained fundamental to La Albiceleste’s success.

    Key stats

    1 – Spain have conceded just one goal in seven matches at this World Cup, keeping an amazing six clean sheets. 239 – Spain have had more touches in the opposition box (239) than any other team in the tournament. 12 – Lionel Messi has had 12 goal involvements (eight goals, four assist) in this tournament – the most of any player. 690 – Emiliano Martinez has played the most minutes (690) of any player at the 2026 World Cup.

    Tactical battle

    The World Cup final pits two contrasting ideologies. Luis de la Fuente’s Spain will dominate possession, using structured pressing and midfield control through Rodri and Fabián Ruiz to suffocate space and dictate tempo. Their fluid, collective system prioritises control and defensive security, conceding very little all-tournament. Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina, by contrast, thrive on adaptability: compact without the ball, but explosive in transition, with Lionel Messi orchestrating and set-pieces a major weapon. Scaloni’s flexibility and in-game tweaks could disrupt Spain’s rhythm, making this a chess match between control and calculated chaos.

    Broadcast details

    Times CAT

    Sunday 19 July

    21:00: Final – Spain v Argentina – LIVE on SuperSport World Cup Central.

  • Ekong’s World Cup Heartbreak: “I Would Have Loved to See Nigeria There” — But He Believes Africa’s Moment Has Arrived

    Ekong’s World Cup Heartbreak: “I Would Have Loved to See Nigeria There” — But He Believes Africa’s Moment Has Arrived

    There is one thought that has followed William Troost-Ekong throughout the FIFA World Cup.What if Nigeria had been there?As one of the country’s most respected footballers and a former captain of the Super Eagles, Troost-Ekong has watched Africa continue to make its mark on football’s biggest stage with equal measures of pride and frustration.Pride because African football continues to prove it belongs among the world’s elite.Frustration because he firmly believes Nigeria should have been part of that story. “I think the motivation has always been there,” Troost-Ekong says. “All of us are incredibly eager to see Nigeria back at the World Cup, and missing out again only increases that desire.”

    “I would have loved to see Nigeria there because, when you watch the African teams performing so well, you cannot help but think Nigeria would also have put in a strong performance.” “Looking at the quality and talent within the squad, I believe they would have been ready. Many of the players have matured, and some also gained valuable experience at the 2018 World Cup.”It is not bitterness that comes through in his voice, but belief.Belief that one of Africa’s footballing giants has the talent to compete with the very best. Belief that missing consecutive World Cups should become the catalyst for meaningful change rather than another painful chapter. “It would have been wonderful to see them compete, but I also think this serves as an important lesson,” he says.“We need to reflect on our preparation and identify what needs to change in order to reach the next level ahead of the next World Cup.” “The players will continue working hard, sharing ideas, and doing everything possible to improve.”“I have never felt there was a lack of motivation or commitment from the players. I simply believe there are several areas that need to change, and this time those changes will be essential if the team is to succeed.

    “While Nigeria’s absence still hurts, Troost-Ekong has found plenty of reasons to smile watching the continent’s representatives continue to challenge the traditional powers. The former captain believes the gap between Africa and Europe and South America has never been smaller. In fact, he believes this  tournament is where African football takes another historic leap forward.“I think so,” he says when asked whether this is Africa’s breakthrough World Cup. At the last World Cup, Morocco broke down those barriers and showed everyone what is possible.”

    Morocco are facing France in the quarter final

    “Based on what we have seen so far in this tournament, many African teams, players, and individual performances have demonstrated that they can compete with the very best in the world.” “I am very hopeful that this could be the World Cup where an African team goes even further than Morocco did. If they reach that stage, hopefully they can go all the way.”

    His faith in Morocco national football team remains unwavering. With Morocco preparing for a blockbuster Quarter Final clash against France national football team on Thursday, 9 July (22:00 CAT), Troost-Ekong believes they once again carry the hopes of an entire continent.

    “Morocco is definitely the first team that comes to mind,” he says.” Senegal and Ivory Coast both did exceptionally well too until their eliminations, and they were a bit unlucky.”Football fans across Africa will be hoping his prediction proves correct. The Morocco-France showdown promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake, and viewers can watch every moment live on SuperSport. As the official broadcaster of the FIFA World Cup across sub-Saharan Africa, SuperSport is bringing fans all 104 matches live, making this the most accessible FIFA World Cup ever, with comprehensive coverage available across television, streaming and digital platforms so that supporters never miss a moment of the world’s biggest sporting spectacle.

    For now, though, Troost-Ekong watches on as an analyst rather than a player — still carrying the disappointment of Nigeria’s absence, but optimistic that Africa’s story at this FIFA World Cup is far from finished. If Morocco can overcome France on Thursday night, they will not only keep their own dream alive, but also continue carrying the hopes of a continent still chasing its greatest-ever World Cup achievement.

    Watch Morocco vs France LIVE on SuperSport this Thursday at 22:00 CAT, as SuperSport continues to bring you every moment of the FIFA World Cup—live, unrivalled and in one place.

  • DStv and GOtv unveil Special Decoder Offers ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

    DStv and GOtv unveil Special Decoder Offers ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

    DStv and GOtv Bring the FIFA World Cup 2026 to Every Home with Special Decoder Offers

    Kampala; From 11 June to 19 July 2026, the biggest football tournament on the planet takes centre stage and customers on DStv Access and GOtv Plus and up will get every moment live on SuperSport. Hosted across the USA, Mexico and Canada, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the biggest yet, featuring 48 nations, unforgettable rivalries and nonstop drama.

    With kickoff times stretching late into the night across Africa, one thing is clear: sleep can wait. SuperSport, Africa’s home of football, will deliver comprehensive World Cup coverage, with dedicated 24-hour channels, multiple language options and simultaneous matches – so you never miss a goal whether you’re a DStv or GOtv customer.

    “The FIFA World Cup is more than just a tournament, it’s a shared global moment,” said Hassan Saleh, the CEO of MultiChoice Uganda. “Our goal is to ensure that fans across Africa can experience every goal, every story and every unforgettable moment as it happens. With dedicated World Cup channels, multi‑platform access and coverage that never stops, SuperSport will once again be the home of the biggest sporting event in the world.”

    DStv and GOtv customers will have all access to all the action with special promotional packages and hardware sales. DStv Standard decoders will be sold at UGX20,000, Zappers at UGX15,000, Exploras UGX559,000 and full kits at UGX45,000, available from 11th May to 31st August. While GOtv decoders (Gotenna) will be at UGX15,000, available from 11th May to 31st August.  DStv and GOtv is the best stadium to watch the FIFA World Cup, with all 104 matches broadcast live over 39 days of non-stop football.

    Fans can enjoy 24/7 coverage across dedicated SuperSport channels that will be renamed for the World Cup, as well as a bonus FIFA World Cup pop-up channel. Beyond the matches, viewers will be treated to highlights, expert analyses, exclusive World Cup magazine shows, African football stories and behind-the-scenes content, all delivered through a distinctly PanAfrican lens with top local commentators and coverage in multiple languages. With flexible viewing options including live TV, Catch Up, replays and streaming, fans can watch the World Cup anytime, anywhere, their way. From your couch to your smartphone, the World Cup moves with you.

    This is more than football. It’s nights that turn into mornings. Goals that stop time. Moments you’ll talk about forever. Catch it all on SuperSport, available only on DStv and GOtv. Upgrade, manage or stream today via MyDStv, MyGOtv, dstv.com or gotvafrica.com.

  • African Heavyweights Chase World Cup Lifeline in Morocco

    African Heavyweights Chase World Cup Lifeline in Morocco

    The path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup enters a critical phase for four African nations as Nigeria, Gabon, Cameroon and DR Congo gather in Morocco for a high-stakes mini tournament that will decide who moves on to the inter-confederation playoffs next March.

    With only one spot available, and continental pride on the line, the stage is set for a compelling blend of history, hunger and redemption across four intense days of football.

    The semifinals on Thursday, 13 November, promise a fascinating contrast of pedigree and ambition. Nigeria face Gabon, in a clash between a seasoned World Cup contender and a nation desperate to make history.

    Bryan Mbeumo of Cameroon (r) celebrates goal with Vincent Aboubakar and Christian Bassogog during the 2026 World Cup Qualifier football match between Mauritius and Cameroon at the Cote d Or Sports Complex in Saint Pierre, Mauritius on 08 October 2025 ©Gavin Barker/BackpagePix

    The Super Eagles—six-time finalists at the global showpiece—arrive with both expectation and pressure after missing out on Qatar 2022. Boasting a talented generation of stars, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi, Nigeria have the firepower to overwhelm opponents but must rediscover the defensive resilience that once made them Africa’s most consistent qualifiers.

    Victor Osimhen of Nigeria celebrates goal during the 2026 World Cup Qualifier football match between Nigeria and Benin at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria on 14 october 2025 ©Justina Aniefiok /BackpagePix

    For Gabon, this is a golden chance to take their football to new heights. Despite never reaching the World Cup, the Panthers have shown flashes of potential in recent years, driven by their talisman Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and a growing supporting cast of domestic and European-based talents. Under coach Thierry Mouyouma, Gabon’s tactical discipline and counter-attacking verve could trouble a Nigerian side that sometimes struggles to convert dominance into goals.

    For the Central Africans, upsetting one of the continent’s giants would be a statement victory—and a step closer to an unprecedented dream.The second semifinal pits two old rivals with rich footballing heritage—Cameroon and DR Congo—against each other in what could be the tournament’s most combustible fixture.

    Cameroon, Africa’s most experienced World Cup nation with eight appearances, including Qatar 2022, carry both confidence and expectation. Led by tactician Marc Brys, the Indomitable Lions continue to blend youth and experience, with André Onana, Vincent Aboubakar and Bryan Mbeumo forming a strong spine. Yet, inconsistency has dogged them since their last World Cup campaign, and DR Congo’s physical, fast-paced style will test their mettle.

    DR Congo, whose lone World Cup appearance came in 1974 under their former name Zaire, are eager to end half a century of absence from the world stage. With players like Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu providing attacking threat, the Leopards have the tools to surprise even the continent’s elite. Coach Sébastien Desabre has instilled a renewed sense of belief and structure, making DR Congo one of Africa’s most improved sides in recent years.The winners of Thursday’s semifinals will meet in a Sunday showdown that could redefine careers and reshape the footballing landscape for years to come.

    Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Gabon celebrates goal during FIFA World Cup Qualifiers 2026 match between Kenya and Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya on 21 March 2025 ©Kelly Ayoudi/BackpagePix

    For Cameroon and Nigeria, a win would preserve their proud World Cup traditions; for Gabon and DR Congo, it would open the door to immortality. Only one can progress to the inter-confederation playoffs in March 2026—where two final World Cup slots await. In Morocco, dreams will soar or shatter, as Africa’s finest chase one last chance to reach football’s grandest stage.

    CAF World Cup Qualifiers, Playoffs/Second Round

    Thursday 13 November 19:00: Semifinal, Nigeria v Gabon – LIVE on SuperSport Africa and SuperSport PSL 21:00: Semifinal, Cameroon v DR Congo – LIVE on SuperSport Africa and SuperSport PSL

    Sunday 16 November, final 21:00: Final – LIVE on SuperSport Africa and SuperSport PSL.

  • Meet Dorothy Nakyeyune, the 23year Old who Won A Ticket to Qatar for the World Cup under the ‘Coca-Cola Believe and Win’ campaign

    Meet Dorothy Nakyeyune, the 23year Old who Won A Ticket to Qatar for the World Cup under the ‘Coca-Cola Believe and Win’ campaign

    Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda (CCBU) recently launched an exciting three-month Under the Crown (UTC) promotion dubbed ‘Believe and Win Ug’.

    This campaign presents a unique opportunity for Ugandan consumers to win exciting prizes worth millions of shillings by simply purchasing Coca-Cola products; Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Novida, Krest or Stoney 300ml glass bottle and checking under the crown to participate.

    As part of the promotion, three (3) lucky Ugandans will each win an all-expenses paid trip to watch the opening match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, with hundreds more winning Television sets from World Cup global partner Hisense, MultiChoice Decoders from official broadcaster MultiChoice Uganda Limited, smartphones and airtime worth two hundred million shillings.

    Newton Lee Ogong Channels & Trade Marketing Manager Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda handing over the dummy ticket to the first Ticket winner Dorothy Nakyeyune

    We caught up with Nakyeyune Dorothy – the first lucky winner scheduled to travel to Qatar for the world cup opening match – and amidst her excitement, asked her a few questions.

    Who is Nakyeyune Dorothy?

    I’m a 23year old Fashion designer from Makindye, currently working at Ham Towers.

    How did you get to participate?

    I have always loved Coca-Cola and drink it often. One day I was listening to the radio when I heard about the ‘believe and Win’ promotion. I started checking under the bottle every time I would buy a glass bottle of Coca-Cola. I won airtime the first two times; I was motivated by this and continued to drink in hope of winning more prizes. I didn’t expect to win the ticket to Qatar to watch the World cup opening match.

    How did winning make you feel?

    I was very excited when I found out that I had won. I’m looking forward to watching the match live and meeting one of my favourite players Marcus Rashford. I still have mixed reactions, I’m happy and afraid at the same time.It will be my first time to travel out of the country and also board a plane. I’m super happy.

    What message do you have for everyone out there?

    Coca-Cola’s Believe and Win campaign is real. You have to try it yourself and see it firsthand. Keep drinking to win. You can buy any of the Coca-Cola products; Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Novida, Krest or Stoney 300ml glass bottle and check under the crown to enter the draw.

    Any other comments?

    Thank you, Coca-Cola, for this opportunity. I did not ever think that I would have the opportunity to travel on an all-expense paid trip. It’s a dream come true.

  • The Coca-Cola company and Coca-Cola beverages Uganda to take Lucky Ugandans for an All-Expenses Paid Trip To the 2022 World Cup in Qatar

    The Coca-Cola company and Coca-Cola beverages Uganda to take Lucky Ugandans for an All-Expenses Paid Trip To the 2022 World Cup in Qatar

    2.5 billion Uganda shillings invested in the campaign

    Namanve, Kampala: Coca-Cola Beverage Uganda (CCBU) has today launched an exciting three-months Under the Crown (UTC) promotion dubbed ‘Believe and Win Ug’.

    This campaign presents a unique opportunity for Ugandan consumers to win exciting prizes worth millions of shillings by simply purchasing Coca-Cola products; Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Novida, Krest or Stoney 300ml glass bottle and checking under the crown to participate.

    Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda Mgt Team joined by Huawei and MultiChoice to launch the World Cup UTC promotion

    As part of the promotion, lucky Ugandans will stand a chance to win an all-expenses paid trip(T&Cs) to watch the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, with hundreds more winning Television sets and smart phones from World Cup global partner Hisense, MultiChoice Decoders from official broadcaster MultiChoice Uganda Limited and airtime.

    A CCBA staff member displays skill at the event to launch the new Under the Crown promotion

    With a total investment of 2.5B Uganda shillings by CCBU aims to ensure that the promotion reaches every single Consumer.

    To participate, consumers are required to send the unique code to 6688 and stand a chance to win weekly prizes and enter a weekly grand draw that will give them a chance to win tickets to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

    According to Isaac Sekasi, the Business Development and Commercialization Director at Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda, this UTC promotion is an opportunity for soccer lovers across the country to enjoy the world cup games while sipping on their favorite drink and winning exciting prizes.

    Isaac Sekasi, the Business Development and Commercialization Director at Coca-Cola Beverages Africa addresses guests at the official launch of the World Cup UTC promotion

    “Coca-Cola has been an official FIFA World Cup Sponsor, proudly participating in over 10 World Cup tournaments. This ‘Believe and Win UG’ promotion is our opportunity to bring the World Cup excitement happening in Qatar to our consumers’ homes across Uganda through exciting prizes such as Television sets, MultiChoice decoders, mobile phones and airtime to keep communicating with their friends through the season,” he noted.

    “In the spirit of being passionate about our consumers and customers, we have a whole range of activities planned during the world cup and this is just part of our way of saying we appreciate you.To reach consumers across the country, Coca-Cola teams will be running regional roadshows and rewarding winners in those regions.

  • 2022 FIFA World Cup – Player Profile Karim Benzema, France

    2022 FIFA World Cup – Player Profile Karim Benzema, France

    SuperSport viewers on DStv and GOtv will be counting down the days to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, with the tournament set to run from 21 November to 18 December and provide the most thrilling distillation of ‘The Beautiful Game’.

    DStv and GOtv is the only true home of football in Africa, offering a range and depth of action that no other rival can match – it’s literally ‘Unbeatable Football’! If you’re going to spend your money on something, it may as well be on the best football in the world.

    One of the players who could light up the 2022 FIFA World Cup in the colours of the defending champions France is striker Karim Benzema.

    The 34-year-old, like a fine wine, has gotten better with age and has established himself as one of the top attacking players on the planet in the past couple of years.

    The Lyon-born player has been especially brilliant for Real Madrid, recently underlining his brilliance with a hat-trick for Los Blancos which helped them complete a stunning comeback in a UEFA Champions League knockout tie against Paris Saint-Germain.

    At 34 years and 80 days, Benzema became the oldest player to score a Champions League hat-trick, surpassing Olivier Giroud (ironically, given that the two have had a sometimes acrimonious rivalry), who was 34 years and 63 days when he hit a treble for Chelsea at Sevilla in 2020.

    “We needed the fans and this is for them. It was a very difficult game but we pushed till the end and we deserve the win. We lost the first leg, they went 1-0 up, but our fans pushed us to give everything right to the final whistle,” said Benzema after the match.

    “Benzema is a fantastic leader of our team, a fantastic forward,” said Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti.

    “I’m very proud of Karim’s attitude. Benzema showed again why he’s the number one striker in the world. It’s time he was at the top of the Ballon d’Or rankings.”

    Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois agrees: “Karim is, along with [Robert] Lewandowski, the best number nine in the world right now. He’s a great player, a real captain, and he carried the team to victory with his goals and his class.”

    Benzema missed out on the last World Cup, with coach Didier Deschamps overlooking the player, but he is sure to feature for Les Bleus at Qatar 2022 if he keeps up his extraordinary level of form – as well as the fact that he has immense experience, with over 90 international caps under his belt.

    Full name: Karim Mostafa Benzema

    Born: 19 December 1987 in Lyon

    Position: Forward

    Senior club career: Olympique Lyon (France, 2004-2009), Real Madrid (Spain, 2009 – present)

    Club career stats: 747 appearances, 384 goals

    International debut: France 1-0 Austria, 28 March 2007, International Friendly

    International stats: 93 caps, 36 goals  France squads: Euro 2008; Euro 2012; 2014 World Cup; Euro 2020*stats correct as of 24 April 2022

    No rival can compete with SuperSport’s coverage. Our viewers on DStv and GOtv enjoy an unrivalled selection of football from around the world!

    Don’t miss the New Football Season on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv. Visit www.dstv.com and www.gotvafrica.com to subscribe or upgrade, and join in on the excitement. And while you’re on the move, you can stream matches on the DStv App.

  • Elite International holds Breakfast prayers, sends more to Qatar for World Cup jobs

    Elite International holds Breakfast prayers, sends more to Qatar for World Cup jobs

    Recruitment giants Elite International Job Link Uganda has today hosted Breakfast prayers in preparation for more drivers heading to World Cup jobs in Qatar.
    Religious leaders were joined by members of security organizations as well as staff of Elite to see off bus drivers heading to work in Qatar head of World Cup 2022.
    The function was held at Elite International offices in Magere on Gayaza Road today morning.
    Elite International manager Joram Mugaru promised to make the company one of the biggest labour exporters in Uganda and the East and Central Africa.
    “We are a team that is working hard to see this company progress very well. We want to be on top,” he said.
    Grab  another great opportunity with  Elite International.
    Elite us urgently in need of security Guards both Male and female  to work in Qatar during WORLD CUP. To apply go to their offices on Gayaza Road (Magere) or contact  07074004881, 0760804265
  • Coca-Cola rewards Football fans

    Coca-Cola rewards Football fans

    Company to continue rewarding fans throughout the World Cup

    2018 FIFA World Cup sponsor and beverage giant Coca-Cola Uganda recently excited football fans and revelers at Legends Bar, Kampala with prizes and branded items in celebration of the Company’s historic association with the FIFA World Cup.

    According to Coca-Cola Brand Manager Ms. Miriam Limo, the Company will continue rewarding consumers at their favorite hangouts as they watch the different World Cup matches.

    The Coca-Cola Company has had a long-standing relationship with FIFA since 1976 and has been an official sponsor of the FIFA World Cup™ since 1978.  Earlier this year, the two global bodies partnered to do the fourth FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour.

    The Coca-Cola goodies that were given to the football fans