March 21 – The two contenders to stage the 2026 World Cup are returning to southern Africa this week in a final push to secure the potentially pivotal backing of the region according to local reports.
Both United 2026 and Morocco view the 14-strong Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) as crucial lobbying ground in the final weeks of campaigning.
Morocco initially had the backing of the South African Football Association (SAFA) President Danny Jordaan but that changed when South African Sports Minister Tokozile Xasa got in on the act by urging SAFA not to vote for Morocco due to strained political relations between the two nations.
Now it is understood both bidders will be in the country ahead of the COSAFA Cup that starts on May 27.
Last week South Africa’s football leadership were urged by CAF leader Ahmad Ahmad not to break ranks with the rest of the Continent.
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